The aim of the Ouseburn Central Masterplan was to develop a proposal for site layout and mix of use together with a set of design principles and requirements which aimed to satisfy the Councils vision of a sustainable urban village.

The Ouseburn Valley has a unique character and strong identity. Historically the area was a highly dense urban/industrial environment. Today art, music, culture, leisure, small businesses and the ‘informal sector’ all mix together and overlap to give a degree of vibrancy.

It was felt that it would be inappropriate to re-brand the area, dominate or overpower its existing character. Instead, the urban design process aimed to draw out what was already there, build on and support the existing uses – work around and with, the remaining historic built fabric.