Brunswick Cemetry

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Re-design of an small underused public park on the site of a disused cemetery.

Client: Bristol City Council

A dis-used cemetery dating back to the 1770's with grade II* and grade II listed structures.
The project was funded through the Big Lottery Fund "Changing Places" programme. The project brief required creation of a city park suitable for modern recreational needs but respecting and incorporating the site's past use and history.
The scheme included:

  • Improving the overall quality of the space, to encourage greater use and discourage antisocial and illegal activity (including substance abuse and prostitution)
  • Improving visibility and circulation around the space
  • Conservation of listed memorials and railings
  • Creation of new improved entrances with bespoke metal gates and railings
  • Working closely with international artist Huw Locke who was commissioned to create an art installation for the site
  • Minimising impact on archaeology and burials
  • Incorporation of extensive herbaceous "drift planting" to provide colour, textural and seasonal interest

On completion of the works, an independent assessment of the site’s value as a public park showed an increase from 43% prior to improvements to 93% afterwards (compared to the clients target score of 75%)

 

 

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