Living and Working

Policy Review

The NDP mentions the support for studios and workshop spaces, which follows from the intrinsic economic and social fabric of Lewes, based on creative industries and some manufacturing. Whilst I agree that the support for these working spaces is positive, it is also insufficient, as the NDP does not allocate land or at least proportions of sites for these uses. There are some employment allocations that involve large manufacturing, commercial and other light industrial activities, but there is no provision for small scale and independent work - the soul of Lewes.

My view is that mixed use developments should be the rule, and only some exceptional areas should be dedicated for residential or employment uses exclusively.

Takeaway

When designing a new scheme in Lewes, especially in a highly sustainable location, as the Station Car Park, I would make efforts to incorporate work and living spaces that support one another and that are of a scale that facilitates small businesses to entrepreneur in Lewes. This entrepreneurial spirit is intrinsic to the culture and economy of Lewes and it can be reinforced through design.

Precedent

A double-courtyard in Malmo creates two distinct outdoor spaces, inviting a variety of uses, and maximising opportunities for non-residential activities too, such as offices, shops, workshops or even a restaurant. Only guests have access to the private area, but it does not impede residents from enjoying the majority of the courtyard. Uses are layered in time: seasons, days and hours of the day define the activities and accesses to these places.