Rejuvenating Dudley's High Streets with Parklets

Meristem Design is delighted to have recently completed designing and installing three Parklets in Dudley Town Centre and three in Halesowen Town Centre (in the Metropolitan Borough of Dudley). The project was funded by the European Regional Development Fund via the Welcome Back Fund. 

The parklets in Dudley Town Centre were 5m by 2m in size, clustered together in an open space. The parklets in Halesowen town centre were also 5m by 2m and were spread down the main high-street in three distinct colours.

What are the features of the Parklets?

The Parklets in Dudley and Halesowen were designed to offer various amenities and features to cater to the needs of the community. The following features were incorporated into the parklet designs:

1. Bike parking: Encouraging sustainable transportation options, the parklets include designated spaces for bicycle parking. This promotes cycling as a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the town centres.

2. Seating: Comfortable seating arrangements have been installed to provide visitors with a place to rest, socialize, or simply observe the bustling high streets. These seating areas promote a sense of community and create opportunities for interaction.

3. Benches: Along with the seating areas, benches have been strategically placed within the parklets. These benches offer a more formal seating option for individuals or groups, allowing people to sit and enjoy the surroundings.

4. Tables: To accommodate individuals who may want to enjoy a quick meal or have a place to work, tables have been integrated into the parklet design. These tables provide a convenient surface for various activities and enhance the versatility of the space.

5. Living roof: One of the standout features of the parklets is the incorporation of a living roof. These green roofs not only add beauty to the parklets but also provide environmental benefits. They help improve air quality, absorb rainwater, and provide habitat for pollinators, contributing to a healthier urban ecosystem.

6. Decking - covered in anti-slip grey coating/paint: The parklets' flooring consists of decking covered in an anti-slip grey coating or paint. This ensures safety for visitors, even during inclement weather, and adds a modern aesthetic to the overall design.

How were the Parklets designed to fit the local topography?

The local topography in Dudley is characterised by hilly terrain, which presented a challenge in creating level and accessible parklets. To overcome this, topographical data provided by the council and OS data were utilised during the design process. This allowed us to create parklets that were perfectly level and flat, despite the steep and uneven terrain. The Parklets were assembled off-site and put in place using HIAB vehicles. By leveraging data and innovative design techniques, the parklets seamlessly blend into the existing landscape while maximising their functionality.

Who is responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the Parklets?

In the case of the Parklets in Halesowen, a collaborative effort has been established between Meristem Design and the Halesowen Business Improvement District (BID). The Halesowen BID has taken up the responsibility of ongoing maintenance, ensuring that the parklets remain clean, well-maintained, and accessible to the community. This partnership exemplifies the importance of involving local organisations and stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of such initiatives.

What has been the community response to the Parklets?

The Parklets in Dudley Town Centre and Halesowen Town Centre have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community. These vibrant and welcoming spaces have provided much-needed gathering spots for people to meet, relax, and have a good time. The struggling high streets of Dudley and Halesowen have experienced a rejuvenation, with the parklets breathing new life into these areas. The parklets have become focal points, attracting both residents and visitors and contributing to the economic and social vitality of the town centres.

What are the benefits of Parklets for businesses?

Parklets offer several advantages for businesses located in the vicinity. By creating attractive and inviting public spaces, parklets draw foot traffic, thereby increasing the visibility of local businesses. The presence of parklets can enhance the overall atmosphere of the high streets, making them more appealing to potential customers. Additionally, the provision of seating and tables in the parklets encourages people to spend more time in the area, leading to higher customer engagement and potential sales. Parklets also contribute to a sense of community, fostering a positive relationship between businesses and local residents.

In conclusion, the Parklets in Dudley Town Centre and Halesowen Town Centre have successfully transformed the high streets, offering inviting spaces for the community to enjoy. The thoughtful design, inclusion of various features, and collaboration with local organisations have been key factors in the success of this rejuvenation project. As Dudley continues to reimagine its high streets, parklets pave the way for a more vibrant and sustainable future.