EXAMPLES OF EXISTING CANAL-SIDE BUILDINGS





We spend so much energy publicising drawbacks with proposed changes to the canal that we rarely get a chance to appreciate some of the positive features that currently exist. Here are some examples of existing designs, old and new, that have been chosen to illustrate some of the factors defined earlier.

Buffer between buildings and the canal

These buildings, in Jamura Close, do not encroach on the canal. They are set back and separated from the water by a wide terrace, accessible to the public. Note how the buildings follow the curve of the canal.

Here is another example of a raised pavement, in Lyme Terrace. The towpath is immeduately below this pavement.

Public Access

Here are some examples of stretches where the public can access the offside canal bank, from Ben Johnson Road, Mile End Road and Solebay Street.

Open Spaces

Note the wide gaps between these buildings in Tower Hamlets and East Hackney. This is in stark contrast to the canyon effect in de Beauvoir.

Building at an angle to the canal bank

These buildings are set at an angle, hence they are much less intrusive than ones that are parallel to the canal.

By contrast, there are no gaps between these buildings in de Beauvoir.

Interaction with the canal

Here are some sites where boating comes first.

Here is a building that has potential to interact with the canal, but appears to be at risk of being redeveloped.

Co-existence of Old and New

Sometimes old and new buildings can exist side by side and complement each other. However, in these two examples they probably interfere with each other.

Irreplaceable buildings

Bulky and ugly Buildings

Buildings that have made good use of the canal

Here are two notable examples on the Regent's Canal where the canal was used for its proper purpose during construction.






Return to Home page