Tithebarn Masterplan, Preston
2002-ongoing

The masterplan for the Preston Tithebarn regeneration area (Preston City Centre) seeks to rejuvenate a large quarter of the city, providing a new heart for Preston. It is the basis for the reinvigoration of the area, which will be achieved by the addition and integration of modern shopping, living, working, entertainment and cultural facilities. It extends beyond a retail scheme and encompasses civic buildings, transport infrastructure, leisure and community facilities. It is at the forefront of inner city mixed-use urban regeneration. Pedestrian areas are to be formed in several areas, along with the creation of loft living and live-work opportunities. A new public space will represent the heart of the masterplan area, which includes shopping, markets, leisure, cinema, theatre, residential, office and live/work units.

The masterplan focuses on the expansion and enhancement of Preston's public realm and its impressive historic civic core. It provides for the creation of a mixed-use part of the city centre, reconnected physically and through townscape, acknowledging the lineage of the principal historic buildings and the existing street patterns of the wider city. The current urban structure will be extended into a series of new pedestrian friendly streets and squares fitting seamlessly into the existing layout.

The masterplan approach has required sensitivity particularly regarding the approach to scale, connectivity and context. TFP have given careful consideration to looking outside the site boundary and an appreciation of the whole city, valuing the historic environment that links with the past and provides continuity and character relevant to Preston today. The masterplan endeavours to repair the fine historic street grain and recognise the importance and significance of historic street patterns. Overall, the objective is to create a vibrant, 24-hour city.