Colin buchanan

Colin Buchanan is currently undertaking an ambitious feasibility study to produce a development-led master plan for the Elstree Way Corridor in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire

The aim of this study, on behalf of Hertsmere Borough Council, is to provide a strategy for comprehensive regeneration of the area, underpinned by robust design principles and sound financial feasibility.

The Elstree Way Corridor is the gateway into the centre of Borehamwood from the A1(M). It forms part of the main commercial area in the town and also contains a large number of civic or public services. However, the quality of the built environment and public realm does not reflect the town centre location or function. Much of the land within the Corridor is owned by Hertsmere Borough Council, Hertfordshire County Council and other public sector or quasi public sector agencies. Many of theses agencies are in the course of reviewing their service and floorspace requirements. Moreover, many of the current buildings are out dated and are of poor design and functionality. This presents an exciting opportunity to review the area in its entirety and establish a new, coherent structure to guide future development.

The study team have prepared initial design concepts and are in the process of further refining and developing these in conjunction with stakeholders. An important outcome will be the production of strong design guidance for the area that is resilient to a changing property market, and that can deliver a high quality design solution without being dependent on a single development scenario. Ultimately the solution must deliver improved and co-ordinated facilities for the delivery of a range of services to the public, whilst also enhancing the physical appearance of this important gateway into the town. The master plan will include improvements such as a new public square, a visitor centre/cultural building linked to Elstree Studios, improved access to open space, sustainable transport measures and additional housing.

This is a complex but exciting project for which Colin Buchanan have brought together a team with a strong mix of skills and experience in master planning, urban design and development viability. William Stewart, development viability expert at Colin Buchanan, commented that now is the right time to undertake this challenging study, saying that local authorities like Hertsmere can use this period of market downturn to their advantage by setting out robust design guidance for future development.

Donald Graham, Chief Executive at Hertsmere Borough Council, said: “This is a very exciting project for the council and the residents and businesses of Elstree and Borehamwood. The Corridor already has much to offer but we believe this is a great opportunity to work with our partners to improve and regenerate the area and transform it into a modern and thriving environment for everyone.”