History and Theory of Urban Design

Neepsend Through the Eyes of Jane Jacobs 15 Project: Module: Institution: Grade: Level: Date:

Laceby Development History and Theory of Urban Design University of Sheffield Distinction (72%) Post-graduate 04/02/2016

The aim of this assignment was to examine a defined area in Neepsend, Sheffield “through the eyes� of one urban designer or theoretician. This was to be achieved by applying or translating urban design theories and historic urban design approaches onto the area, imagining how the chosen person may have analysed interpreted and/or intervened in the chosen area. Journalist Jane Jacobs was chosen for the purpose of my assignment.

Further information: Neepsend is a suburb of Sheffield which is heavily characterised by industrial buildings, mainly in the form of workshops. As a result of this mono use, very little other activity occurs here leaving the area to appear unattractive and unsafe, particularly at night.

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Neepsend Currently -

Varied Buildings “The district must mingle buildings that vary in age and condition, including a good proportion of old ones” (Jacobs, 1961, Pg. 187)

Safety

Active sidewalks with more pedestrians and street level merchants will provide few opportunities for street crime, with the sense of “eyes on the street” (Jacobs, 1961, Pg.35) Neighbourhood Parks “Parks are volatile places. They tend to run to extremes of popularity and unpopularity” (Jacobs, 1961, Pg. 89) Building Concentration “The district must have a sufficiently dense concentration of people, for whatever purpose they may be there. This includes people there because of residence” (Jacobs, 1961, Pg.200) Mixed Uses “The district, and indeed as many of its internal parts as possible, must serve more than one primary function; preferably more than two. These must insure a presence of people who go outdoors on different schedules and are in the place for different purposes, but who are able to use the facilities in common” (Jacobs, 1961, Pg.152) Small Blocks “Most blocks must be short; that is, the streets and opportunities to turn corners must be frequent” (Jacobs, 1961, Pg.179) * All passages taken from Jane Jacobs The Death and Life of the Great American City (1961)

Heavily industrial A mixture of short and large blocks Lack of urban diversity A mixture of old and new buildings Limited residential space, lack of community

Through the Eyes of Jane Jacobs