The Resilient Cycling Borders Gala Project
George Tsouhnikas + Christina Mitratza
+ Programme and Place + Prospectus + Prototype
Introduction The project aims to generate a tourism industry in Galashiels. It suggests the development of a cycling network that connects the town with the biking centre of Glentress and the surrounding Borders areas. Since cycling is developing to a very popular recreation and sports activity around the Borders, the creation of such a network will regenerate tourism in the area and therefore, Galashiels. Scotland constitutes a popular destination for cyclists as it offers unique landscapes, seascapes and routes to explore. It is one of the world’s top mountain biking destinations, with the Glentress centre attracting more than 400.000 visitors annually.
links to our other projects - Forming Nexus - Knowledge Corridor - Gala Gait - Eol Gala - Cycling Gala - Textile Heritage - Gala Design Hub - Textile Tectonics - Food for Thought - The Well-being Network - The Healthy Connection Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture M.Sc. Advanced Sustainable Design 2015
The Resilient Cycling Borders Gala Project
George Tsouhnikas + Christina Mitratza
+ Programme and Place + Prospectus + Prototype
5-year plan
10-year plan
20-year plan
links to our other projects - Forming Nexus - Knowledge Corridor - Gala Gait - Eol Gala - Cycling Gala - Textile Heritage - Gala Design Hub - Textile Tectonics - Food for Thought - The Well-being Network - The Healthy Connection Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture M.Sc. Advanced Sustainable Design 2015
CyclingGala is a project about building capacity in tourism provision in Galashiels. It proposes the development of a cycling network using existing tracks and disused railway lines. In particular it looks to forge a link with the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland based at Glentress. It builds on what is a fast growing recreational activity that can build physical links and infrastructure between Galashiels and the Scottish Borders. This proposal encourages both residents and visitors to take up sporting activities and lead healthier lifestyles not only through cycling, but also walking and other fitness activities.
The Resilient Cycling Borders Gala Project
George Tsouhnikas + Christina Mitratza
+ Programme and Place + Prospectus + Prototype
At the heart of this scheme is a new visitor centre and trail facility to the south west of Galashiels. It is designed to lie at the heart of a series of cycle and walking trails. The main cycle route to Glentress along the former railway line to Peebles starts here. The building is designed to sustainable principles. Heating and hot water is provided through a biomass boiler using locally cut and processed timber. Water is stored and re-used locally. The southern aspect of the scheme is exploited to allow for photovoltaic arrays to provide power and lighting for the centre.
links to our other projects - Forming Nexus - Knowledge Corridor - Gala Gait - Eol Gala - Cycling Gala - Textile Heritage - Gala Design Hub - Textile Tectonics - Food for Thought - The Well-being Network - The Healthy Connection Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture M.Sc. Advanced Sustainable Design 2015 basic utilities strategy for heating power and water
The Resilient Cycling Borders Gala Project
George Tsouhnikas + Christina Mitratza
+ Programme and Place + Prospectus + Prototype
links to our other projects - Forming Nexus - Knowledge Corridor - Gala Gait - Eol Gala - Cycling Gala - Textile Heritage - Gala Design Hub - Textile Tectonics - Food for Thought - The Well-being Network - The Healthy Connection Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture M.Sc. Advanced Sustainable Design 2015
The Resilient Cycling Borders Gala Project
George Tsouhnikas + Christina Mitratza
+ Programme and Place + Prospectus + Prototype
The construction of the visitor centre is primarily timber frame that has low embodied energy and can use local skills and economic resources. A primary structure of engineered timber beams is built into the site with a secondary structure supporting a heavily insulated roof. The building is fully glazed to take account of the views and open aspect of the site. Sheltered external spaces are available to sit outside when weather permits.
links to our other projects - Forming Nexus - Knowledge Corridor - Gala Gait - Eol Gala - Cycling Gala - Textile Heritage - Gala Design Hub - Textile Tectonics - Food for Thought - The Well-being Network - The Healthy Connection Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture M.Sc. Advanced Sustainable Design 2015