feilden clegg bradley to regenerate a historic harbour in cornwall, UK

feilden clegg bradley studios (FCBStudios) has been granted detailed planning permission for ‘hayle north quay’ – a mixed-use project to revitalize a cornish harbour in the UK. the intervention, which will provide a variety of uses over a total area of 20 acres, will be positioned within a UNESCO world heritage site. considering the sensitive location, the design responds to and embraces the history of the harbour while still creating a contemporary insertion on the coast of cornwall.

image by FCBStudios (main images by forbes massie)

the proposal by FCBStudios will provide approximately 140 homes, a new public square, improved fishing facilities, 600 m2 of office space and around 2,000 m2 of waterside commercial units. in addition to the detailed permission, outline consent has also been given for the wider masterplan, which includes around 300 dwellings, a boutique hotel, a watersports hub and works to a grade 2 listed stable block. the scheme has been developed in full collaboration with the local community, cornwall council and heritage bodies, working with david lock associates, stephen levrant heritage architecture, churchman thornhill finch landscape architects, EDP, vectos and WSP.

image by FCBStudios

the scheme draws inspiration from traditional cornish harboursides, the coal wharf heritage of the site and uses the distinctive natural landscape. located immediately adjacent to the quayside will be a mix of wharf houses and apartment buildings with active commercial ground floors. the prominent position will benefit from the expansive views across the estuarine setting. the narrow wharf lanes evoke the historic railway routes that weaved their way through structures and buildings, creating spaces sheltered from the prevailing south-westerly wind.

image by FCBStudios

matt williams, associate at FCBStudios said: ‘developing a scheme for hayle that works with the operational needs of the historic harbour, the economic and residential requirements of the town and the setting of the site – conservation area, world heritage site, adjacent to a SSSI – was challenging, but has resulted in a place that will complement and enhance the historic town. following an exemplar planning process we now have support from the local community, town council, cornwall council, historic england, and icomos.’

image by FCBStudios

a new public square for hayle will create a strong destination for north quay. the buildings located here will have a prominent, simple architectural language which takes its design cues from the now-demolished coal-fired power station. the generous, public realm surrounding them will host a range of ground floor uses. north quay square will provide a generous public space which establishes a clear visual and physical link between the development and the wider context.

image by FCBStudios

located on the hilltop area above north quay will be a low-density residential development of detached and semi-detached villa type houses. these dwellings are embedded in the existing dune landscape, with light and airy living accommodation within. meandering routes will connect the spine of the north quay road with key points within the wharf area and onto the harbourside. intimate in scale, the ground floor use of small kiosks and entrances for the residences animate the spaces.

image by FCBStudios

simon wright of sennybridge said: ‘we are pleased that detailed planning has been granted for hayle north quay. the heart of the vision was to ensure that hayle’s outstanding natural beauty and industrial history were at the forefront of our plans. we are extremely proud of the scheme that has been developed by FCBStudios and look forward to making this an exciting place to live, work and visit.’ the first phase of the project is due to commence in early 2020.