Background
A strong opinion that runs through all the consultation data we have collected is that Totton is not aesthetically pleasing. We are the odd-one-out compared to other nearby towns and villages. From Romsey in the North, to Hythe in the South, and Lyndhurst to the West, we are surrounded by settlements that are praised for being attractive. While Eling is a historic settlement with many beautiful heritage buildings and a special aura, it is Totton that is the bigger and more ‘front-facing’ part of our town. Most of Totton has been built post World War One, with rapid expansion from the 1960s onwards which led to some piece-meal and fragmented decisions on how to fit in the necessary amenities and infrastructure for the size of our growing town with little thought to aesthetics.
Now, with the Neighbourhood Plan we have put together a Design Strategy and Framework that can allow a distinctive character for Totton and Eling to develop over time.
AIMS OF THE DESIGN STRATEGY AND FRAMEWORK
To encourage good quality design, good access, and landmark buildings for Totton and Eling.
To allow a distinctive character to develop in Totton and Eling over time.
To improve the town centre and other public spaces.
Because Totton is not a historic town (most of the town built post first world war) it is possible to embrace new approaches towards distinctive architecture that other local towns may not be able to do. However, it is important the the quality of design is maintained to develop a distinctive and local character for Totton and Eling.
We will retain and celebrate historic buildings within the parish by listing buildings of historic interest
To allow architecture which is landmark in design
To include public art in developments as a standard
Making sense and making more of Totton and Eling’s attractive aspects and semi-rural location.
Making a theme of the tide mill and the salmon leap across Totton and Eling to ensure that Totton’s green spaces are more prominent in people’s minds
Promoting connected cycle and pedestrian routes
Encouraging wayfinding and information points
Reduce catalogue street furniture and instead have street furniture which is either a unique one-off design for the specific location, or a design which is part of our recommended town design
Encouraging busking and street theatre to animate the town centre
Create a Totton Centre Action Team similar to those in New Milton and Eastleigh to improve the look and aspect of the town, as well as supporting local businesses and people to hold events
Encourage the community to be involved in design issues by setting up a residents design forum with representatives from the community and councillors, as well as creative industries, who can consider design issues.
Ensure we have adequate provision for children in terms of play areas in the town centre. These play areas can also be part of the culture requirement if individually designed by local craft workers.
