Could less traffic on the roads and planting an urban forest help lower carbon footprint in Leeds?
That's the suggestion from Leeds resident Hannah Beard, who won the Liveable City Competition, which asked for ideas to completely overhaul the “inhospitable jungle of roads and traffic” in the Leeds Eastside area.
Run by Leeds Civic Trust, the competition encouraged suggestions on how to improve the area, which includes Quarry Hill, the Marsh Lane area and Saxton Gardens - and also vitally important heritage buildings such as Leeds Minster and Kirkgate Market.
Hannah's forward-thinking idea from her entry called A Common Ground would mean some major roads around the area would need to be rerouted and 1,000 trees planted.
Hannah said: “Having spent many hours cycling and walking around Eastside, I often wondered what would happen if we removed traffic and reclaimed back the space, creating a safer, greener and more coherent landscape.
“In the current global climate, I believe that we need to think collaboratively and on a large scale to make an impact. If this means rerouting major roads and planting an urban forest, then this is what we should strive for."
Speaking about her winning entry, the judges said: “Hannah sets out a clear concept and vision for the area with a series of focussed interventions to achieve this. She has considered people at the heart of her proposals, putting forward ideas that will make Eastside an attractive place to live and visit. Hannah brought her plan to life with a delightful audio piece.”
The second prize was awarded to a team from the architects responsible for the refurbishment of the Leeds Playhouse (Page\Park).
Entries from Gillespies LLP and a joint entry from Planit-IE and Buro Happold were high commended, whilst an entry from nine-year-old Finn Cawley to improve crossings was given a special prize.
Leeds Civic Trust Director Martin Hamilton said: “Covid-19 has led to a change in habits. We are walking and cycling more, we are using our local shopping facilities rather than venturing further afield, and many are expecting to work from home for the foreseeable future.
“This competition to improve one of the most inhospitable parts of the city could not have come at a better time, all of the competition entries provide us with real hope for a better future in this part of Leeds.
“The next step is to discuss these proposals with Leeds City Council to deliver improvements on the ground.
“With a zoning approach to planning being mooted by government, this kind of area-based approach to placemaking – pooling the expertise and insights of professionals and lay-people alike may become more widespread in the future.”
