NLC Environmental Services have designed and supervised the delivery of environmental
improvements in Motherwell Town Centre as part of a phased programme of works – this is the third phase with the fourth being prepared at the moment and due on site this year (2013).
The aim of the project was to upgrade the appearance of the town centre as well as improving access and circulation, especially for pedestrians but also for cars, delivery vehicles, taxis, buses and vehicles accessing the train station. Muir Street is a very busy main street of the town leading to Motherwell train station. There are several businesses and shops here, a taxi rank and two bus stops. The new layout led to the widening of footways and reducing the road to one lane with the introduction of on street parking, loading bays and a new taxi rank to better manage the conflicting traffic demands and to improve access for all. Street clutter was reduced by removing all street guards and rearranging of street furniture. The new 15-meter bus shelter is used by all passengers, who wait at two separate bus stops, and a raised granite kerb installed at a radius enables easier access onto the buses.
The streets have been paved in granite slabs and setts similar to previous phases of works. Bespoke granite seats and metal benches have been installed in waiting and resting areas, while shops provide their own outdoor seating with the footway now wide enough for this purpose. Granite columns create a gateway feature and incorporate historical maps and images of sporting successes of Motherwell-born sportsmen and sportswomen. Trees were planted in the soft verge, which created a nice setback from the traffic and softened the streetscape. All roads have been resurfaced, drainage improved and traffic signs installed to improve safety.
The design was developed through extensive internal and external consultation and was presented for comments during public displays, on hand delivered leaflets, on the council’s website and during regular meeting with residents and businesses in the area.
