We are delighted to see our recent proposals for South Thamesmead featuring on the cover of a new publication by The Academy of Urbanism. ‘Rethinking Masterplanning’ (edited by Husam AlWaer and Barbara Illsley) explores a new holistic approach to masterplanning and examines the latest research, debates and practice in key areas of the subject.

Our collaboration with the Scottish Government and developer Mactaggart & Mickel at Polnoon is also included as a case study. The 121-home extension to a historic planned village in East Renfrewshire offers a high quality addition to the existing settlement, and sensitively places carefully-designed 21st century homes alongside a fine example of 18th century place making.

In developing the 5.6 hectare site, key objectives were to create a vibrant streetscape, and provide a thoughtful transition from historic, through contemporary, to rural. The ethos of the design rejects the impermeable cul-de-sac arrangement and the ‘plot-by-plot’ approach of many suburban expansions, and instead provides a clear hierarchy of shared surface public realm spaces – streets, lanes, courts and a central square – to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Rethinking Masterplanning is available to purchase at the Institution of Civil Engineering bookshop.