However, the prospect of a new multi-storey car park – often criticised as being ugly buildings of concrete and steel – also raised fears among local residents. Until now...
Architects Gilling Dod have designed a 425-space car park that uses Maple’s
expanded mesh panels to soften the visual impact on the local area.
In fact, the powder-coated panels in grey and white will create a random pattern that will transform a functional car park into a building of architectural value – similar to Maple’s façade project at the
Rotherham Interchange bus station and car park.
The car park was planned in consultation with local community groups, and will be constructed in ways to cause minimal disruption to the surrounding area.
As well as looking good, the aluminium panels will allow natural light and ventilation into the car park, help disperse exhaust fumes and reduce light spill from car headlights.
The project, in collaboration with main contractors Morgan Sindall Construction, is one of four new car park projects for Maple, with work in Chester, Gateshead, Bishop’s Stortford and Burton all scheduled to start this summer.