Upload
others
View
2
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Hig
h S
tree
tEx
hibi
tion
Con
tent
Reso
urce
Introduction High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Do we really value our HighStreets or are they simply pasttheir sell-by date
With vacancies up and shoppernumbers down is it time to rethinkIn Scotland the High Street beganas a marketplace a hub of socialactivity ndash busy raucous and messyThe High Street exhibition showedits evolution our changing shopsand shopping habits and theimpact this has had today Specially commissioned filmsgathered peoples stories of theHigh Street and documented a recent journey through 15 ScottishHigh Streets It suggested remedies to ensure our futureHigh Streets are sustainable andthriving places
ArbroathAyrDumfries
DunfermlineEdinburghElgin
ForresGlasgowKirkcaldy
LanarkNorth BerwickPaisley
PeeblesPerthSanquhar
02
High Streets need peopleThey are sociable placeswith shopkeepersrsquo smalltalk and neighbourhoodgossip full of activity andinteraction They requireshoppers shop ownersentrepreneurs and originalideas We talked to lots ofpeople about High Streetsfrom long-standing familybusinesses and communityco-operatives to plannerspoliticians and town centremanagers This is whatthey had to say
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
02_Alan SteelHigh Street shopper Paisley
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
04_Murray BarnettArtisan Baker G H Barnett Bakers with five bakeries in the East Neuk of Fife
05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generationbutcher with seven shops across central Scotland
08_Derek ClydeOwner Glentress Bikes High Street Peebles
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
10_Leigh SparksProfessor of Retail Studies Institute for Retail StudiesUniversity of Stirling
11_Andy KennedyStirling City Centre Initiative Manager Stirling Council
12_George AdamMSP Paisley Constituency Scottish National Party
13_William LivingstoneRetired Editorial Director of the Dunfermline Press Group Chairman of the Carnegie Dunfermline Trust and Dunfermline resident
14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
0201 03 04 05 06
See the interviews filmhttpwwwadsorgukaccessprojectshigh-street-people-2
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
ldquoI was in Paris at the weekend and itrsquos justamazing how many shops there weresmall shops butchers bakers all makinga living There is such a vibrancy and buzzabout it How can we capture that forsmaller townsrdquo
03
07 08 09 10 11 12
ldquoOne of the frustrations we found isthe lack of council support wersquore asocial enterprise and people not really understanding the value or theskills that go into creating these shopson the local High Streetrdquo
ldquoIf you donrsquot have a high street what have you got houses people floatingabout you donrsquot have a centre that brings it all togetherrdquo
ldquoA really good High Street is whereyou feel comfortable to linger anddwell a little bit and have a chat or justhave a look aroundrdquo
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
ldquo I love it I love being on the High Street I love the interaction I love my customers I love when they come into the shopLiving in a small town you get your regulars you knoweverybody on the High Street all the shopkeepers knoweach other and look out for each otherrdquo
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
04
ldquoItrsquos the people that make the High Street buzzrdquo15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
13 14 15 16
ldquoAt night now none of the shops have lights on the wholeplace is dead and you wouldnrsquot want to be thererdquo
ldquoIn the old days the town was the area whereeverybody came to do their shopping So itwas like a magnet to people And now thatmagnet is broken because wersquove created aculture where the town centre is not the mostimportant place to gordquo07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generation butcherwith seven shops across central Scotland
ldquoFor independent traders who are thelifeblood of the High Streets there is not a levelplaying field in terms of competing with chainstores and supermarketsrdquo05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ldquoWe recognise that town centresare more than just pavements andshops they are actually hearts ofthe communityrdquo 14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
05
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The Scottish High Street began in the 12th century withthe reign of David I He established the early royal burghswhich were Scotlandrsquos first organised trading centres withthe right to hold weekly markets and larger annual fairs
There were no shops on the High Street Instead itwidened to accommodate the marketplace the burghrsquossocial hub ndash a place of exchange gossip and commercewhere people from the town and countryside would meetto sell local produce and buy imported goods from merchants The sale of goods was strictly controlledwithin the royal burghs with taxes paid to the King
The High Street was lined with simple wooden houseswith long narrow plots of land called rigs for cultivationand grazing animals Gradually these filled up with buildingssuch as storehouses workshops and houses withwynds or vennels created between them
From the medieval period to the 17th and early 18th centurythe street market was the main source for daily food and provisions As the towns grew and developed so did thepublic buildings and structures required to support the population trading and the collection of taxes
01_Weigh House
In some burghs there was a purpose-built building forthe weighing and measuringof goods for sale in the markets Each burgh had astandard set of weights andmeasures which were usedto check on the fairness ofgoods sold and to calculatetaxes
02_Markets
Outdoor markets tookplace in the widened areaof the High Street withpeople and animalscrowded together Marketsoften specialised with separate markets for meatfish poultry etc Late 19thcentury burgh reforms encouraged indoor marketswhich removed the needfor street markets a featureof High Streets for centuries
03_Tolbooth
The tolbooth was an important multi-functionalpublic building where tollscustoms and taxes werecollected and where thecouncil chamber courtroomand prison cells were oftenlocated Most towns hadseveral successive tolboothbuildings ending up withseparate town houses andprisons by the 18th or 19thcentury
04_Church
To signify its importancethe parish church or cathedral usually occupieda central and prominent position in the town centreproviding an architecturalfocus at the heart of thetown
05_Mercat Cross
The mercat or marketcross often stood on stepsin the centre of the market-place marking the right ofa burgh to hold a marketMany crosses weremoved during the 18th century when they obstructed traffic
06_Tron
Weights and measureswere regulated by burghsand the public weighing machine or lsquotronrsquo was usedto weigh goods in the marketplace to calculatetaxes owed Public meetingsand punishments of pettyoffenders also took placehere
07_Port
The ports or gates werepositioned at the mainentry points into the burghThe burghs hadboundaries with simplewalls and ports thesewere not defensive butcontrolled entry and exit forthe collection of taxes andprovided protection fromthe weather
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Edinburgh
Map of the royal burgh of Edinburghand the separate burgh of Canongate which was formally incorporated into Edinburgh in 1856 illustrating the buildings and structuresthat were commonly found on HighStreets in Scottish burghs
James Gordon Edinodunensis Tabulam Iacobus Gordinius P Rothemayus 1647 National Library of Scotland
r
06
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Introduction High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Do we really value our HighStreets or are they simply pasttheir sell-by date
With vacancies up and shoppernumbers down is it time to rethinkIn Scotland the High Street beganas a marketplace a hub of socialactivity ndash busy raucous and messyThe High Street exhibition showedits evolution our changing shopsand shopping habits and theimpact this has had today Specially commissioned filmsgathered peoples stories of theHigh Street and documented a recent journey through 15 ScottishHigh Streets It suggested remedies to ensure our futureHigh Streets are sustainable andthriving places
ArbroathAyrDumfries
DunfermlineEdinburghElgin
ForresGlasgowKirkcaldy
LanarkNorth BerwickPaisley
PeeblesPerthSanquhar
02
High Streets need peopleThey are sociable placeswith shopkeepersrsquo smalltalk and neighbourhoodgossip full of activity andinteraction They requireshoppers shop ownersentrepreneurs and originalideas We talked to lots ofpeople about High Streetsfrom long-standing familybusinesses and communityco-operatives to plannerspoliticians and town centremanagers This is whatthey had to say
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
02_Alan SteelHigh Street shopper Paisley
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
04_Murray BarnettArtisan Baker G H Barnett Bakers with five bakeries in the East Neuk of Fife
05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generationbutcher with seven shops across central Scotland
08_Derek ClydeOwner Glentress Bikes High Street Peebles
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
10_Leigh SparksProfessor of Retail Studies Institute for Retail StudiesUniversity of Stirling
11_Andy KennedyStirling City Centre Initiative Manager Stirling Council
12_George AdamMSP Paisley Constituency Scottish National Party
13_William LivingstoneRetired Editorial Director of the Dunfermline Press Group Chairman of the Carnegie Dunfermline Trust and Dunfermline resident
14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
0201 03 04 05 06
See the interviews filmhttpwwwadsorgukaccessprojectshigh-street-people-2
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
ldquoI was in Paris at the weekend and itrsquos justamazing how many shops there weresmall shops butchers bakers all makinga living There is such a vibrancy and buzzabout it How can we capture that forsmaller townsrdquo
03
07 08 09 10 11 12
ldquoOne of the frustrations we found isthe lack of council support wersquore asocial enterprise and people not really understanding the value or theskills that go into creating these shopson the local High Streetrdquo
ldquoIf you donrsquot have a high street what have you got houses people floatingabout you donrsquot have a centre that brings it all togetherrdquo
ldquoA really good High Street is whereyou feel comfortable to linger anddwell a little bit and have a chat or justhave a look aroundrdquo
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
ldquo I love it I love being on the High Street I love the interaction I love my customers I love when they come into the shopLiving in a small town you get your regulars you knoweverybody on the High Street all the shopkeepers knoweach other and look out for each otherrdquo
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
04
ldquoItrsquos the people that make the High Street buzzrdquo15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
13 14 15 16
ldquoAt night now none of the shops have lights on the wholeplace is dead and you wouldnrsquot want to be thererdquo
ldquoIn the old days the town was the area whereeverybody came to do their shopping So itwas like a magnet to people And now thatmagnet is broken because wersquove created aculture where the town centre is not the mostimportant place to gordquo07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generation butcherwith seven shops across central Scotland
ldquoFor independent traders who are thelifeblood of the High Streets there is not a levelplaying field in terms of competing with chainstores and supermarketsrdquo05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ldquoWe recognise that town centresare more than just pavements andshops they are actually hearts ofthe communityrdquo 14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
05
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The Scottish High Street began in the 12th century withthe reign of David I He established the early royal burghswhich were Scotlandrsquos first organised trading centres withthe right to hold weekly markets and larger annual fairs
There were no shops on the High Street Instead itwidened to accommodate the marketplace the burghrsquossocial hub ndash a place of exchange gossip and commercewhere people from the town and countryside would meetto sell local produce and buy imported goods from merchants The sale of goods was strictly controlledwithin the royal burghs with taxes paid to the King
The High Street was lined with simple wooden houseswith long narrow plots of land called rigs for cultivationand grazing animals Gradually these filled up with buildingssuch as storehouses workshops and houses withwynds or vennels created between them
From the medieval period to the 17th and early 18th centurythe street market was the main source for daily food and provisions As the towns grew and developed so did thepublic buildings and structures required to support the population trading and the collection of taxes
01_Weigh House
In some burghs there was a purpose-built building forthe weighing and measuringof goods for sale in the markets Each burgh had astandard set of weights andmeasures which were usedto check on the fairness ofgoods sold and to calculatetaxes
02_Markets
Outdoor markets tookplace in the widened areaof the High Street withpeople and animalscrowded together Marketsoften specialised with separate markets for meatfish poultry etc Late 19thcentury burgh reforms encouraged indoor marketswhich removed the needfor street markets a featureof High Streets for centuries
03_Tolbooth
The tolbooth was an important multi-functionalpublic building where tollscustoms and taxes werecollected and where thecouncil chamber courtroomand prison cells were oftenlocated Most towns hadseveral successive tolboothbuildings ending up withseparate town houses andprisons by the 18th or 19thcentury
04_Church
To signify its importancethe parish church or cathedral usually occupieda central and prominent position in the town centreproviding an architecturalfocus at the heart of thetown
05_Mercat Cross
The mercat or marketcross often stood on stepsin the centre of the market-place marking the right ofa burgh to hold a marketMany crosses weremoved during the 18th century when they obstructed traffic
06_Tron
Weights and measureswere regulated by burghsand the public weighing machine or lsquotronrsquo was usedto weigh goods in the marketplace to calculatetaxes owed Public meetingsand punishments of pettyoffenders also took placehere
07_Port
The ports or gates werepositioned at the mainentry points into the burghThe burghs hadboundaries with simplewalls and ports thesewere not defensive butcontrolled entry and exit forthe collection of taxes andprovided protection fromthe weather
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Edinburgh
Map of the royal burgh of Edinburghand the separate burgh of Canongate which was formally incorporated into Edinburgh in 1856 illustrating the buildings and structuresthat were commonly found on HighStreets in Scottish burghs
James Gordon Edinodunensis Tabulam Iacobus Gordinius P Rothemayus 1647 National Library of Scotland
r
06
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Streets need peopleThey are sociable placeswith shopkeepersrsquo smalltalk and neighbourhoodgossip full of activity andinteraction They requireshoppers shop ownersentrepreneurs and originalideas We talked to lots ofpeople about High Streetsfrom long-standing familybusinesses and communityco-operatives to plannerspoliticians and town centremanagers This is whatthey had to say
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
02_Alan SteelHigh Street shopper Paisley
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
04_Murray BarnettArtisan Baker G H Barnett Bakers with five bakeries in the East Neuk of Fife
05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generationbutcher with seven shops across central Scotland
08_Derek ClydeOwner Glentress Bikes High Street Peebles
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
10_Leigh SparksProfessor of Retail Studies Institute for Retail StudiesUniversity of Stirling
11_Andy KennedyStirling City Centre Initiative Manager Stirling Council
12_George AdamMSP Paisley Constituency Scottish National Party
13_William LivingstoneRetired Editorial Director of the Dunfermline Press Group Chairman of the Carnegie Dunfermline Trust and Dunfermline resident
14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
0201 03 04 05 06
See the interviews filmhttpwwwadsorgukaccessprojectshigh-street-people-2
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
ldquoI was in Paris at the weekend and itrsquos justamazing how many shops there weresmall shops butchers bakers all makinga living There is such a vibrancy and buzzabout it How can we capture that forsmaller townsrdquo
03
07 08 09 10 11 12
ldquoOne of the frustrations we found isthe lack of council support wersquore asocial enterprise and people not really understanding the value or theskills that go into creating these shopson the local High Streetrdquo
ldquoIf you donrsquot have a high street what have you got houses people floatingabout you donrsquot have a centre that brings it all togetherrdquo
ldquoA really good High Street is whereyou feel comfortable to linger anddwell a little bit and have a chat or justhave a look aroundrdquo
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
ldquo I love it I love being on the High Street I love the interaction I love my customers I love when they come into the shopLiving in a small town you get your regulars you knoweverybody on the High Street all the shopkeepers knoweach other and look out for each otherrdquo
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
04
ldquoItrsquos the people that make the High Street buzzrdquo15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
13 14 15 16
ldquoAt night now none of the shops have lights on the wholeplace is dead and you wouldnrsquot want to be thererdquo
ldquoIn the old days the town was the area whereeverybody came to do their shopping So itwas like a magnet to people And now thatmagnet is broken because wersquove created aculture where the town centre is not the mostimportant place to gordquo07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generation butcherwith seven shops across central Scotland
ldquoFor independent traders who are thelifeblood of the High Streets there is not a levelplaying field in terms of competing with chainstores and supermarketsrdquo05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ldquoWe recognise that town centresare more than just pavements andshops they are actually hearts ofthe communityrdquo 14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
05
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The Scottish High Street began in the 12th century withthe reign of David I He established the early royal burghswhich were Scotlandrsquos first organised trading centres withthe right to hold weekly markets and larger annual fairs
There were no shops on the High Street Instead itwidened to accommodate the marketplace the burghrsquossocial hub ndash a place of exchange gossip and commercewhere people from the town and countryside would meetto sell local produce and buy imported goods from merchants The sale of goods was strictly controlledwithin the royal burghs with taxes paid to the King
The High Street was lined with simple wooden houseswith long narrow plots of land called rigs for cultivationand grazing animals Gradually these filled up with buildingssuch as storehouses workshops and houses withwynds or vennels created between them
From the medieval period to the 17th and early 18th centurythe street market was the main source for daily food and provisions As the towns grew and developed so did thepublic buildings and structures required to support the population trading and the collection of taxes
01_Weigh House
In some burghs there was a purpose-built building forthe weighing and measuringof goods for sale in the markets Each burgh had astandard set of weights andmeasures which were usedto check on the fairness ofgoods sold and to calculatetaxes
02_Markets
Outdoor markets tookplace in the widened areaof the High Street withpeople and animalscrowded together Marketsoften specialised with separate markets for meatfish poultry etc Late 19thcentury burgh reforms encouraged indoor marketswhich removed the needfor street markets a featureof High Streets for centuries
03_Tolbooth
The tolbooth was an important multi-functionalpublic building where tollscustoms and taxes werecollected and where thecouncil chamber courtroomand prison cells were oftenlocated Most towns hadseveral successive tolboothbuildings ending up withseparate town houses andprisons by the 18th or 19thcentury
04_Church
To signify its importancethe parish church or cathedral usually occupieda central and prominent position in the town centreproviding an architecturalfocus at the heart of thetown
05_Mercat Cross
The mercat or marketcross often stood on stepsin the centre of the market-place marking the right ofa burgh to hold a marketMany crosses weremoved during the 18th century when they obstructed traffic
06_Tron
Weights and measureswere regulated by burghsand the public weighing machine or lsquotronrsquo was usedto weigh goods in the marketplace to calculatetaxes owed Public meetingsand punishments of pettyoffenders also took placehere
07_Port
The ports or gates werepositioned at the mainentry points into the burghThe burghs hadboundaries with simplewalls and ports thesewere not defensive butcontrolled entry and exit forthe collection of taxes andprovided protection fromthe weather
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Edinburgh
Map of the royal burgh of Edinburghand the separate burgh of Canongate which was formally incorporated into Edinburgh in 1856 illustrating the buildings and structuresthat were commonly found on HighStreets in Scottish burghs
James Gordon Edinodunensis Tabulam Iacobus Gordinius P Rothemayus 1647 National Library of Scotland
r
06
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
07 08 09 10 11 12
ldquoOne of the frustrations we found isthe lack of council support wersquore asocial enterprise and people not really understanding the value or theskills that go into creating these shopson the local High Streetrdquo
ldquoIf you donrsquot have a high street what have you got houses people floatingabout you donrsquot have a centre that brings it all togetherrdquo
ldquoA really good High Street is whereyou feel comfortable to linger anddwell a little bit and have a chat or justhave a look aroundrdquo
03_Jane WoodChair of the Dunbar Community Bakery and CEO Scottish Business in the Community
01_Cora McCormackHigh Street shopper Paisley
ldquo I love it I love being on the High Street I love the interaction I love my customers I love when they come into the shopLiving in a small town you get your regulars you knoweverybody on the High Street all the shopkeepers knoweach other and look out for each otherrdquo
06_Liz DavidsonArchitectural conservationist and Principal City Design Glasgow City Council
09_Jane McGarryAssistant Manager Age Scotland High Street Peebles
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
04
ldquoItrsquos the people that make the High Street buzzrdquo15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
13 14 15 16
ldquoAt night now none of the shops have lights on the wholeplace is dead and you wouldnrsquot want to be thererdquo
ldquoIn the old days the town was the area whereeverybody came to do their shopping So itwas like a magnet to people And now thatmagnet is broken because wersquove created aculture where the town centre is not the mostimportant place to gordquo07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generation butcherwith seven shops across central Scotland
ldquoFor independent traders who are thelifeblood of the High Streets there is not a levelplaying field in terms of competing with chainstores and supermarketsrdquo05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ldquoWe recognise that town centresare more than just pavements andshops they are actually hearts ofthe communityrdquo 14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
05
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The Scottish High Street began in the 12th century withthe reign of David I He established the early royal burghswhich were Scotlandrsquos first organised trading centres withthe right to hold weekly markets and larger annual fairs
There were no shops on the High Street Instead itwidened to accommodate the marketplace the burghrsquossocial hub ndash a place of exchange gossip and commercewhere people from the town and countryside would meetto sell local produce and buy imported goods from merchants The sale of goods was strictly controlledwithin the royal burghs with taxes paid to the King
The High Street was lined with simple wooden houseswith long narrow plots of land called rigs for cultivationand grazing animals Gradually these filled up with buildingssuch as storehouses workshops and houses withwynds or vennels created between them
From the medieval period to the 17th and early 18th centurythe street market was the main source for daily food and provisions As the towns grew and developed so did thepublic buildings and structures required to support the population trading and the collection of taxes
01_Weigh House
In some burghs there was a purpose-built building forthe weighing and measuringof goods for sale in the markets Each burgh had astandard set of weights andmeasures which were usedto check on the fairness ofgoods sold and to calculatetaxes
02_Markets
Outdoor markets tookplace in the widened areaof the High Street withpeople and animalscrowded together Marketsoften specialised with separate markets for meatfish poultry etc Late 19thcentury burgh reforms encouraged indoor marketswhich removed the needfor street markets a featureof High Streets for centuries
03_Tolbooth
The tolbooth was an important multi-functionalpublic building where tollscustoms and taxes werecollected and where thecouncil chamber courtroomand prison cells were oftenlocated Most towns hadseveral successive tolboothbuildings ending up withseparate town houses andprisons by the 18th or 19thcentury
04_Church
To signify its importancethe parish church or cathedral usually occupieda central and prominent position in the town centreproviding an architecturalfocus at the heart of thetown
05_Mercat Cross
The mercat or marketcross often stood on stepsin the centre of the market-place marking the right ofa burgh to hold a marketMany crosses weremoved during the 18th century when they obstructed traffic
06_Tron
Weights and measureswere regulated by burghsand the public weighing machine or lsquotronrsquo was usedto weigh goods in the marketplace to calculatetaxes owed Public meetingsand punishments of pettyoffenders also took placehere
07_Port
The ports or gates werepositioned at the mainentry points into the burghThe burghs hadboundaries with simplewalls and ports thesewere not defensive butcontrolled entry and exit forthe collection of taxes andprovided protection fromthe weather
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Edinburgh
Map of the royal burgh of Edinburghand the separate burgh of Canongate which was formally incorporated into Edinburgh in 1856 illustrating the buildings and structuresthat were commonly found on HighStreets in Scottish burghs
James Gordon Edinodunensis Tabulam Iacobus Gordinius P Rothemayus 1647 National Library of Scotland
r
06
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
ldquoItrsquos the people that make the High Street buzzrdquo15_Wallace GlendinningRetired architect and native of Ayr
13 14 15 16
ldquoAt night now none of the shops have lights on the wholeplace is dead and you wouldnrsquot want to be thererdquo
ldquoIn the old days the town was the area whereeverybody came to do their shopping So itwas like a magnet to people And now thatmagnet is broken because wersquove created aculture where the town centre is not the mostimportant place to gordquo07_Richard JohnstonDirector Thomas Johnston Butchers fourth-generation butcherwith seven shops across central Scotland
ldquoFor independent traders who are thelifeblood of the High Streets there is not a levelplaying field in terms of competing with chainstores and supermarketsrdquo05_Lindsay LennieAuthor of Scotlandrsquos Shops and historic shop conservation expert
16_Sheena AndrewRetired librarian Trustee of the Scottish Civic Trust and former secretary of the local Civic Society in Ayr
High Street People High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ldquoWe recognise that town centresare more than just pavements andshops they are actually hearts ofthe communityrdquo 14_Bob DarracottDirector of Planning and TransportRenfrewshire Council
05
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The Scottish High Street began in the 12th century withthe reign of David I He established the early royal burghswhich were Scotlandrsquos first organised trading centres withthe right to hold weekly markets and larger annual fairs
There were no shops on the High Street Instead itwidened to accommodate the marketplace the burghrsquossocial hub ndash a place of exchange gossip and commercewhere people from the town and countryside would meetto sell local produce and buy imported goods from merchants The sale of goods was strictly controlledwithin the royal burghs with taxes paid to the King
The High Street was lined with simple wooden houseswith long narrow plots of land called rigs for cultivationand grazing animals Gradually these filled up with buildingssuch as storehouses workshops and houses withwynds or vennels created between them
From the medieval period to the 17th and early 18th centurythe street market was the main source for daily food and provisions As the towns grew and developed so did thepublic buildings and structures required to support the population trading and the collection of taxes
01_Weigh House
In some burghs there was a purpose-built building forthe weighing and measuringof goods for sale in the markets Each burgh had astandard set of weights andmeasures which were usedto check on the fairness ofgoods sold and to calculatetaxes
02_Markets
Outdoor markets tookplace in the widened areaof the High Street withpeople and animalscrowded together Marketsoften specialised with separate markets for meatfish poultry etc Late 19thcentury burgh reforms encouraged indoor marketswhich removed the needfor street markets a featureof High Streets for centuries
03_Tolbooth
The tolbooth was an important multi-functionalpublic building where tollscustoms and taxes werecollected and where thecouncil chamber courtroomand prison cells were oftenlocated Most towns hadseveral successive tolboothbuildings ending up withseparate town houses andprisons by the 18th or 19thcentury
04_Church
To signify its importancethe parish church or cathedral usually occupieda central and prominent position in the town centreproviding an architecturalfocus at the heart of thetown
05_Mercat Cross
The mercat or marketcross often stood on stepsin the centre of the market-place marking the right ofa burgh to hold a marketMany crosses weremoved during the 18th century when they obstructed traffic
06_Tron
Weights and measureswere regulated by burghsand the public weighing machine or lsquotronrsquo was usedto weigh goods in the marketplace to calculatetaxes owed Public meetingsand punishments of pettyoffenders also took placehere
07_Port
The ports or gates werepositioned at the mainentry points into the burghThe burghs hadboundaries with simplewalls and ports thesewere not defensive butcontrolled entry and exit forthe collection of taxes andprovided protection fromthe weather
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Edinburgh
Map of the royal burgh of Edinburghand the separate burgh of Canongate which was formally incorporated into Edinburgh in 1856 illustrating the buildings and structuresthat were commonly found on HighStreets in Scottish burghs
James Gordon Edinodunensis Tabulam Iacobus Gordinius P Rothemayus 1647 National Library of Scotland
r
06
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The Scottish High Street began in the 12th century withthe reign of David I He established the early royal burghswhich were Scotlandrsquos first organised trading centres withthe right to hold weekly markets and larger annual fairs
There were no shops on the High Street Instead itwidened to accommodate the marketplace the burghrsquossocial hub ndash a place of exchange gossip and commercewhere people from the town and countryside would meetto sell local produce and buy imported goods from merchants The sale of goods was strictly controlledwithin the royal burghs with taxes paid to the King
The High Street was lined with simple wooden houseswith long narrow plots of land called rigs for cultivationand grazing animals Gradually these filled up with buildingssuch as storehouses workshops and houses withwynds or vennels created between them
From the medieval period to the 17th and early 18th centurythe street market was the main source for daily food and provisions As the towns grew and developed so did thepublic buildings and structures required to support the population trading and the collection of taxes
01_Weigh House
In some burghs there was a purpose-built building forthe weighing and measuringof goods for sale in the markets Each burgh had astandard set of weights andmeasures which were usedto check on the fairness ofgoods sold and to calculatetaxes
02_Markets
Outdoor markets tookplace in the widened areaof the High Street withpeople and animalscrowded together Marketsoften specialised with separate markets for meatfish poultry etc Late 19thcentury burgh reforms encouraged indoor marketswhich removed the needfor street markets a featureof High Streets for centuries
03_Tolbooth
The tolbooth was an important multi-functionalpublic building where tollscustoms and taxes werecollected and where thecouncil chamber courtroomand prison cells were oftenlocated Most towns hadseveral successive tolboothbuildings ending up withseparate town houses andprisons by the 18th or 19thcentury
04_Church
To signify its importancethe parish church or cathedral usually occupieda central and prominent position in the town centreproviding an architecturalfocus at the heart of thetown
05_Mercat Cross
The mercat or marketcross often stood on stepsin the centre of the market-place marking the right ofa burgh to hold a marketMany crosses weremoved during the 18th century when they obstructed traffic
06_Tron
Weights and measureswere regulated by burghsand the public weighing machine or lsquotronrsquo was usedto weigh goods in the marketplace to calculatetaxes owed Public meetingsand punishments of pettyoffenders also took placehere
07_Port
The ports or gates werepositioned at the mainentry points into the burghThe burghs hadboundaries with simplewalls and ports thesewere not defensive butcontrolled entry and exit forthe collection of taxes andprovided protection fromthe weather
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Edinburgh
Map of the royal burgh of Edinburghand the separate burgh of Canongate which was formally incorporated into Edinburgh in 1856 illustrating the buildings and structuresthat were commonly found on HighStreets in Scottish burghs
James Gordon Edinodunensis Tabulam Iacobus Gordinius P Rothemayus 1647 National Library of Scotland
r
06
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
01 Tolbooth Glasgow inscribed lsquoHigh Street from the Cross 1868Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow Photographer Thomas Annan)Licensor wwwrcahmsgovuk
02 Tolbooth Steeple PittenweemRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
03 Tolbooth CrailRoyal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
04 Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis 1893St Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
05 Mercat Cross Glasgow Newsquest (Herald amp Times)Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 Tron Stenton East LothianEast Lothian Museums ServiceLicensor wwwscranacuk
07 Mercat Cross KincardineSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08 Mercat Cross Airth photograph c 1900Falkirk MuseumsLicensor wwwscranacuk
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05 08
07
06
07
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
09
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
09 Ayr (Fish) Market Cross Engraving of the Fish Cross in Ayr showing the activity of the 19th century marketplace in detail by David Octavius HillImage reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
10 High Street Dumfries showing the market cross in the foregroundDumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
11 Fish Cross Ayr 1814 painting by Robert Bryden 1918Image reproduced courtesy of South Ayrshire Council
12 Weigh House Dundee photograph taken c 1895 The building was demolished at the end of the 19th centuryDundee City Council Central Library Photographic CollectionLicensor wwwscranacuk
13 Weigh House Lawnmarket Edinburgh Built in 1660 to replace an earlier version and demolished in 1822Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
14 East Port Cowgate Dundee Also known as Wishart Arch and dating from the 16th century it is the only existing part of Dundeersquos city wallsArchive Services University of Dundee Licensor wwwscranacuk
15 Netherbow Port High Street Edinburgh One of six gates in the Flodden Wall that surrounded the Old Town of Edinburgh it was demolished in 1764Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of ScotlandLicensor wwwscranacuk
16 West Port St Andrews Built in 1589 and along with Dundeersquos East Port the only other surviving port in ScotlandSt Andrews University LibraryLicensor wwwscranacuk
08
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street History High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 High Street Peebles c 1900National Museums Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 High Street Edinburgh c 1900Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
04 High Street Perth c 1935St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 High Street Dumfries c 1900Dumfries and Galloway Libraries Information and Archives
05 High Street Elgin c 1900 ndash 1910Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 High Street Glasgow c 1870 ndash 1900Glasgow University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03 04
02
05 06
09
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Early Shop Types
Buith or boothA small timber booth
Chop choppe or shopA shop
Crame creame or krameA very small booth or shop
Luckenbooth or luckenbuithA locked booth or small lock-up shop
Pent or penticeA sloping lean-to roof or porch
Laigh housesThe ground or lower floors of buildings
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Scotlandrsquos medieval shops were simple lean-to timberbooths offering shelter and security which existed alongside open market stalls In the 17th century groundfloors of piazzas provided shopping under cover andwere encouraged by burgh authorities for their fireproofstone construction
Glass was pivotal in shop design Initially expensive it restricted windows to small panes until the Glass Tax was lifted in 1845 From 1850 onwards window panes increased in size slowly at first along with architecturalcast iron mass-produced in Scottish foundriesstreetscapes were transformed
The 20th century witnessed construction of elegant Edwardian shops and substantial department stores buttraditional styles were eclipsed by the Art Deco movement of the interwar period World War II halted development and post-war enthusiasm for minimalist designs waned Vitrolite and chrome gradually diminishedin favour of plate glass aluminium and plastic
01 Butcherrsquos shop St Andrews c 1900St Andrews University Library Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
10
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Piazza
Stone tenements with wide-arched ground-flooropenings were erected in Scottish burghs in the17th century Inspired by continental architectureburgh authorities encouraged their constructionas both elegant and fireproof The small darkshops were unpopular with shopkeepers and theopenings were filled in around 1800 and the shopsbrought to the front
Bow-fronted
Bow-fronts emerged in response to increasing affluence in the late 18th century They improvedlight and display but also were visible statements ofshops in the High Street They varied from shallowto deep bows or sometimes more elaborate serpentine shapes They used multiple panes ofcrown glass predating the availability of plate glassThe fashion ended in the early 19th century
Georgian arched
From the 1790s narrow arched openings wereused for shops and were fashionable in the early19th century Elegant classical architecture createda sense of regularity and rhythm for thestreetscape but still offered flexibility in shop sizePilasters were applied to the openings to formaliseand enhance their appearance
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01
02
03
04
05
06
05 West Nicholson Street EdinburghHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
06 High Street Dunkeld c 1809 three storey tenement with early ground floor shopsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
01 Arcaded tenements High Street Glasgow c 1876Courtesy of RCAHMS (Corporation of Glasgow photographer Thomas Annan) Licensor wwwscranacuk
02 Arcaded building Elgin c 1850University of Strathclyde Licensor wwwscranacuk
03 Barlass Ironmongers formerly at 58 High Street PerthCourtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
04 Post Office which is the oldest continuously working Post Office in the world dating to 1712 High Street SanquharHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Victorian plate glass and cast iron
The availability of cheaper plate glass combinedwith cast iron to open up shopfronts Cast ironwas both structural and decorative used for heavycolumns slim colonnettes or even entireshopfronts Large windows improved display andincreased natural light as shops became deeperDesigns became increasingly decorative and elaborate with scrolled console brackets and cutand gilded signage
Post-war
The 1950s followed some of the trends of the1930s using chrome terrazzo and Vitrolite Windows were angled mirroring the wider designapproach of square and angular styles sometimeswith lsquofish-tankrsquo style windows With the availabilityof aluminium plate glass and plastic shops becamemore uniform in the 1960s
Contemporary
Unlike earlier periods contemporary shopfronts aremore difficult to categorise There is great variation instyles approaches and materials Designs varyfrom pastiche Victorian to ultramodern and occasionally quirky and innovative Few match traditional shops in quality of materials but successful examples often use higher quality timbers and metals
High Street Shops High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
07
08
09
10
11
12
07 Decorative cast iron columns Church Street St AndrewsHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
08 Console bracket McEwens Boutique PerthHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
09 Interwar jewellers shop dating from 1936 with vitrolite frontage Victoria Street RothesayHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
10 Walkers Shortbread shop High Street Aberlour on SpeyHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
11 Newsagents shop front designed as part of the LUV shop front project Govan Road GlasgowHistoric Scotland Crown Copyright
12 Tinderbox Cafeacute designed by Graven Images Ingram Street GlasgowRenzo Mazzolini
12
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
1830s1844
1849187118791884189819041914
19091912
192719291939194019401948195019501954
1955
195819581962
19621964
1970
197119711972
1973
1974
19901990
19901994
High Streets began developing into retail centresEquitable pioneers of Rochdale formed the worlds first retailco-operativeBoots the Chemist was foundedFirst Liptons grocers opened in GlasgowWilliam Low and Co grocers opened in DundeeMarks and Spencers opened in LondonLiptons had 242 branches in BritainButtercup Dairy Company was formedBy WWI the co-operative movement had three millionmembersand 15 of all food salesFirst UK Woolworths opened in LiverpoolCellophane patented by Jaques E Brandenberger and usedas a food wrapperButtercup Dairy has around 250 shops in ScotlandFirst Tesco store opened in LondonBurtons had 595 shops across the UKWWII rationing began in BritainPrivate car ownership in UK at one car for every 23 peopleFirst charity shop opens in UK Oxfam in OxfordSainsburys opens their first self service shop in CroydonFewer than 8 of households had fridgesEnd of WWII rationing enabling the economy to boom inthe 1950s and 1960sBritainrsquos first pedestrianised shopping precinct opens inCoventryGreen shield stamps became available until 1991First self-service William Lows in ScotlandApprox 12000 supermarkets and self-service stores inthe UKAround 33 of households have a fridgeFirst multi-level shopping centre in Scotland opened in CumbernauldMarks and Spencers first uses sell-by dates on the shopfloorBritain adopted decimal currencyAround 69 of households have a fridgeMearns Cross shopping centre opened on the outskirts of GlasgowGreen Shield Stamp catalogue shops were rebranded toArgosWester Hailes shopping centre opened on the outskirtsof EdinburghTraffic volumes increased by 630 in the UK from the 1950sDistance travelled to shops has increased by 60 since1975Creation of the World Wide WebTesco bought out Wm Lows 57 supermarkets 45 in Scotland
1994
19941995199519991998200220062007
2009
20092009
2011
2011
25 of UK retail space found in out of town shoppingcentresTesco started small scale online shopping in the UKAmazon launched on the internetFirst UK loyalty card Tesco Clubcard is launchedBraehead shopping centre opens near PaisleyFirst UK farmers market opened in Bath Aberfeldy becomes Scotlands first Fair Trade townWedgecard local shop loyalty card launched in LondonBusiness Improvement Districts came into being in ScotlandScottish Government town centre regeneration funding ofpound60 million allocatedClosure of all 807 UK branches of WoolworthsHigh Street chains Zavvis Borders and Barratts go into administrationVacancy rate for Scotlands High Streets and town centres is 111Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales
High Street ChangeTimeline
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Internet shopping sales are 8 of total UK retail sales (2011)
13
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Our lifestyles income and mobility have changed dramatically over the last century directly affecting whathappens on the High Street We now have far fewershops and travel much further to get to them The mostregular trips we make are still for groceries but 76 ofthis demand is met by just four supermarket companiesWe have convenient 24 hour internet shopping onestop out-of-town shopping centres and big box retailparks with acres of free parking Alternatives that ourlocal High Streets often find hard to compete with
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
01 In the early days of retailing most products were fetched by an assistant from shelves behind the counter they often had to measure out and wrap the precise amount desired by the customer The process was slow but allowed time for conversations between staff and customersCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
02 A branch of Liptons on the High Street Perth showing the large numbers of staff that were employed to serve customers Courtesy of Perth Museum and Art Gallery Perth and Kinross Council
03 A branch of Wm Lows in Glasgow the grocer eventually became a common supermarket in Scotland before being bought out by Tesco in 1994Carol Foreman
04 Self-service grocers allowed shoppers to select their own pre-packaged goods and pay for them at the end this revolutionised shopping was quicker and required less staffCourtesy of the Sainsbury Archive
05 Co-operative branch number five in Perth at the end of the 19th centuryPerth Museum and Art Gallery Licensor wwwscranacuk
06 A branch of the Buttercup Dairy once a common High Street shop in ScotlandCourtesy of Monica Leggeat
07 As car ownership grew so did the distances people would travel to shop giving them greater options away from the town centreThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
01
03
05
04
02
06 07
14
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
08 Purpose built shopping centres away from the High Street became more common This shopping centre consisting of 12 shops was opened in 1954 the second centre to be built in Glenrothes new townFife Council Licensor wwwscranacuk
09 Large scale out-of-town supermarkets and retail parks drew shoppers away from the traditional town centresThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
10 Purpose built indoor shopping centres provided protection from the weather ample car parking and a wide range of shops This is the newly built Wester Hailes shopping centre in 1974The Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
11 Owning a fridge meant that fewer trips to the shops were needed as food could be kept fresh for longer periods of timeThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
12 Decimal prices in the window of Hay amp Co licensed grocers in EdinburghThe Scotsman Publications Ltd Licensor wwwscranacuk
13 Self-service grocers grew in scale into supermarkets and provided a huge range of pre-packaged productsNewsquest (Herald amp Times) Licensor wwwscranacuk
High Street Change High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
08
10
11
09
12 13
15
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
The media frequently reports retail job losses chainstores going bust and the independents that are leftstruggling The result is vacant shop units that have a degrading effect on the overall centre But this is not thewhole picture there are still places in Scotland where the High Street remains a vibrant commercial and civic centre despite these challenges
A film was presented in the exhibition that documented ajourney through 15 High Streets in Scotland It presented avisual mix of locations and populations from wealthycommuter towns to former industrial towns In each townor city visited every shop on each street was noted andthe results highlight the make-up of the street and types ofbusinesses on the High Street today
Glasgow 583 300Edinburgh 454 280Dunfermline 78 550
Paisley 74 100Ayr 60 880Kirkcaldy 48 630
Perth 44 820Dumfries 31 610Arbroath 22 110
Elgin 21 040Forres 9 540Lanark 8 400
Peebles 8 160N-Berwick 6 530Sanquhar 2 030
Mid 2008 Population Estimate Scotland General Register Office for Scotland
16
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
The 15 towns and cities we visited High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
ElginForres
Arbroath
Perth
Kirkcaldy
Dunfermline
North Berwick
EdinburghGlasgow
Paisley
Lanark
Peebles
Ayr
Sanquhar
Dumfries
17
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Elgin
Elgin dates back to King David I and became a royal burgh in 1136The High Street grew between the Castle in the west and ElginCathedral in the east Over time Elgin evolved from a markettown and ecclesiastical centre to an affluent and grand city The High Street had a wide and generous marketplace at its centre Today this contains the elegant St Giles Kirk and forms theheart of the retail centre of the town
Forres
Forres is one of Scotlandrsquos oldest market towns The High Streetfollows the traditional Scottish pattern of long vennels running atright angles to the main street The High Street widens in themiddle where the market would previously have been held Although the vennels are no longer distinctive much of the HighStreetrsquos form is still intact This includes many important buildingssuch as the Tolbooth and Market Cross
Arbroath
The development of Arbroath started as a village around theAbbey along with a small hamlet by the harbour The HighStreet developed to link these two areas and formed one of thethree principal streets along with Marketgate and Millgate Thetown became a royal burgh in 1559 and grew rapidly withthe advent of the Industrial Revolution The High Street has remained at the heart of the town and houses many shops andcivic buildings
All maps with the exception of North Berwick and Sanquhar are byJohn Wood and were published between 1818 and 1826 North Berwick and Sanquhar are Great Reform Act maps of 1832
John Wood map photographs courtesy of University of DundeeArchive ServicesReform Act maps reproduced by permission of the Trustees of the National Library of Scotland
r
18
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Perth
Situated on the highest navigable point of the River Tay Perthdates back to the 12th century when it was formed as a newtown and royal burgh The compact town developed on a gridiron pattern that can still be seen today The High Streetruns eastndashwest across the city from the riverrsquos edge Today theHigh Street is pedestrianised with a mix of independent andchain shops punctuated by some vacant units
Kirkcaldy
Kirkcaldy is a former royal burgh located on the north shore ofthe Firth of Forth The town High Street stretches over four milesin a westerly direction from the port The town developed inplots for residents running in narrow strips from the back of theHigh Street Much evidence of this historical developmentalong with the original marketplace has been lost over timeThe modern High Street is part pedestrianised along its lengthand functions as a retail centre for the town
Dunfermline
Dunfermline is a former royal burgh established by Malcolm III asthe new royal seat in the 11th century The town became extremely powerful and gained ecclesiastical influence with thefoundation of Dunfermline Abbey The High Street runs rightthrough the centre of the town starting from its western edge Itremains a busy retail centre for Dunfermline dominated by chainstores with very few vacant units
19
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
North Berwick
Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth North Berwick grewthrough trade to become a royal burgh in 1373 The High Streetruns parallel to and inland from the shore Unlike many otherroyal burgh towns the High Street is uncharacteristically narrowand provides no open space for a market Due to a wealthypopulation of Edinburgh commuters and a bustling tourist trademany independent shops thrive on this High Street
Edinburgh
Edinburghrsquos High Street is one of the worldrsquos most distinctiveand recognisable streets Dating from medieval times the streetopened up along its length to house important buildings such as StGilesrsquo Cathedral and civic functions such as markets Closeslead downhill from the High Street providing narrow enclosedand defensible spaces that could be shut off from attack Today the High Street remains alive with an abundance oftourist traders jostling next to the historic civic buildings
Glasgow
Glasgow was originally a bishopric with the same trading rightsas a royal burgh and grew around the historic High Streetwhich runs from the Cathedral in the north to the TolboothSteeple at Glasgow Cross The arcaded shops and overcrowded medieval vennels of the High Street were demolished during the city improvements in the 19th century It was superseded as a trading street by the growth of the citywestwards and is now completely overshadowed by the shopping streets in the city centre
20
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Paisley
Paisley dates back to the 6th or 7th century when St Mirren established a chapel here This was followed in 1163 by PaisleyAbbey The High Street runs from the crossing point of the CartWater across from Paisley Abbey in a westerly direction TheHigh Street grew with its town incorporating a range of impressive buildings Today the street is pedestrianised and linedwith shops These have suffered in recent years due to thetownrsquos proximity to Glasgow and out-of-town retail developments
Lanark
Having become a royal burgh in 1140 Lanark has been an important market town since medieval times This is reflected inthe generous width and length of the townrsquos High Street whichwould have housed a market along its length The street opensup to the west to frame St Nicholas Church creating an attractive focal point Today the High Street functions as a retailcentre for the town but this has declined in recent years because of competition with places such as Glasgow
Peebles
Peebles became a royal burgh in 1152 and has continued tofunction as a market town for centuries The Market Cross canbe found at the eastern edge of the High Street where itwidens to accommodate the former market The High Street iswide and generous along its length and has many fine buildingsincluding the old Parish Church at the western edge of thestreet Today the attractive High Street has many independentshops catering to both tourists and locals
21
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr
Ayr became a royal burgh in 1205 The High Street along withSandgate was laid out at this time originating at the crossingpoint of the River Ayr The High Street was an almostcontinuously fronted street with longer vennels running behindThe street opened out along its length to house a generousmarket space The High Street has remained largely intact overtime and Ayr is still a busy retail centre though the northern endof the street has recently declined with many vacant units
Sanquhar
Sanquhar grew due to its position along one of the main routesfrom the centre to the south of Scotland The High Street is unusually long and is lined by small largely two-storey buildingsproviding a mix of retail and houses The street is home to theoldest Post Office in the world and is terminated at its south-western end by the Tolbooth building that is now thelocal museum
Dumfries
The market town of Dumfries was made a royal burgh in 1186and later awarded a royal charter in 1395 Located inland andparallel to the River Nith the High Street widens to contain twolarge open spaces one the old market the other the more formal Queensberry Square These spaces are separated by aseries of buildings including the townrsquos lsquoMid Steeplersquo dating from1705 Today the High Street is pedestrianised and largely dominated by chain stores
22
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Peebles Forres 57
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
f
Overall High Street use for all 15 places October 2011
Independent businesses 42
Chain businesses 41
Vacant units 11
Public cultural and civic 6
fIndependent Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
North Berwick 70
Sanquhar 56
Arbroath 50
Lanark 46
Perth 40Kirkcaldy 38Elgin 36
Paisley 34
Dumfries 21
Glasgow 61
Dunfermline 18
Ayr 15
Edinburgh 54
23
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Paisley 29
Ayr 18
Glasgow Kirkcaldy 17
Perth 14
Dumfries Sanquhar 12
Arbroath 10
Peebles 7
Dunfermline Elgin Lanark 5
Forres 4
North Berwick 3 Edinburgh 0
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fVacant Units - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Ayr 66
Dumfries 64
Elgin 52
Lanark 48
Kirkcaldy 43
Perth 39
Arbroath 34Edinburgh 31Peebles 30Paisley 29
Forres 27
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 18
Sanquhar 14
Dunfermline 75
fChain Businesses - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
24
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Definitions
Retail
All shops providing goods such as supermarkets butchers bakersclothes household items electronicsgifts newsagents and charity shops
Entertainment and leisure
All places providing leisure activitiessuch as cafes take-aways pubs betting shops bingo halls and amusement arcades
Service and professional
All places providing a service such as hairdressers opticians dry cleaningtravel agents banks solicitors and estate agents
Retail 51
Entertainment and leisure 19
Service and professional 30
High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High Street Places
fOverall High Street business types for all 15 places October 2011
25
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Ayr 25
Lanark 34
Kirkcaldy 28Perth 29
Edinburgh 7
Peebles 15
Elgin 31
Forres Arbroath 36Paisley 37
North Berwick 23
Glasgow 48
Sanquhar 33Dumfries 32
Dunfermline 26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
fService and Professional - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
Lanark 44
Perth 56
Edinburgh 50
Paisley Elgin 42
North Berwick 59
Glasgow 30
Dunfermline 66
Ayr 67
Dumfries 58
Kirkcaldy 53
Arbroath 47
Peebles 62
Forres 41
Sanquhar 43
fRetail - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
26
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Places High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Ayr Dunfermline 8
Dumfries 10
Elgin 26
Kirkcaldy 19
Perth 15
North Berwick Arbroath 17
Edinburgh 43
Lanark Paisley 21
Peebles Sanquhar Forres 23
Glasgow 22
fEntertainment and Leisure - Percentage on each High Street October 2011
27
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Keep it local
Wigan Plus Card
The Wigan Plus reward card supports local businesses and encourages residents to shop locally Cardholders can access exclusive offers from local businesses relative to their locationand interests Businesses can alsotarget specific customers groups inthe area more effectively to increase footfall The Wedge Card isa similar scheme in London
Supporting local businesses within the community
The Bakery
Traditional shops such as butchersand bakers have been disappearingfrom our High Streets as they facetough competition from supermarkets In reaction to this thecommunity of Dunbar have formeda co-operative to run a bakery ontheir High Street Shareholders thatinvest in the bakery receive a discount on quality hand-bakedgoods The Bakery meets a localdemand provides a source of employment and apprenticeshiptraining
Lewes Pound
Between 1789 and 1895 the countyof Lewes in East Sussex had itsown currency The Lewes Poundhas been re-introduced as an alternative to Sterling It helps maintain the circulation of money inthe local economy by encouragingcustom and trade between localbusinesses This helps Lewes buildresilience against national chainstores that draw income away fromtheir area Other successful examples are the Bristol Pound andthe Totnes Pound
The Peoplersquos Supermarket
The Peoplersquos Supermarket in London has reinvented the supermarket Members receive adiscount on their shopping providedthey donate four hours per monthto work in the shop The moneysaved by the volunteer workforce isthen reinvested into the scheme tokeep the food at affordable pricesMembers have a say in how theshop operates and what it sells resulting in a supermarket that is runby the people for the people
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Are we happy to let our High Streets slowly decline bedominated by clone chain stores or increasing numbersof To Let signs There are remedies to create a futureHigh Street that is unique distinctive and thriving place
28
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
More than retailThe High Street can be used for more than shopping
Super Hero Supply Store
In New York there is an unconventional shop that sellssuper hero supplies A secret doorin the shop hides a place whereschool children can go for readingand writing tutoring from volunteerwriters The imaginative surroundings within the shop helpto instill enthusiasm and creativity inthe students and items sold in theshop help to support the project826 National who run the projectnow have similar stores locatedthroughout the world
Workshop 24
For five months in 2010 the EmptyShops Network transformed a vacant shop in London into a hub ofcommunity activity with everythingfrom poetry readings and patchwork quilting to urban exploration and guerrilla gardening It became a temporary home toartists writers makers and thinkersand generated a platform for members of the community to meetwith each other while discoveringhidden qualities about their area
Allotment
In 2009 the National Theatre ofScotland produced a uniqueevening of live performance newart and music in a vacant unit ofGovan Shopping Centre GlasgowA team of artists communitygroups and businesses transformeda vacant shop into a performancespace The allotment events drewattention away from the image ofdecline associated with Govan andbrought together a mix of locals andvisitors to celebrate the creativityand spirit of the area
Theatre Absolute
In 2009 Theatre Absolute established the UKrsquos first professionalshop front theatre within the CityArcade in Coventry Situated in a former chip shop the theatre com-pany staged 54 different events andperformances over an 18 month trialperiod The central location lowcost tickets for performances andwriting workshops proved popularwith locals Coventry Council hassince offered Theatre Absolute anextended lease to remain in the Arcade
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
29
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Change your image
Pavement to Parks
In San Francisco areas of under-used space are brought to theattention of the city authoritiesthrough the Pavement to Parkswebsite Selected redundant areasare temporarily closed off to trafficand reclaimed as public parks withcheap seating and quick planting installations They are tested for a trialperiod allowing the city and community to evaluate them If successful the park will becomepermanent Inspired by Park(ing) Dayan annual event that transforms cityparking spaces into public spacesPavement to Parks introducedparklets These permanently takeover parking spaces to widen thepavement provide seating areas andbike parking for citizens
Create something unique and special about your town
Incredible Edible Todmorden
The Incredible Edible movement inTodmorden actively seeks outunder-used land and reclaims it aspublic growing space Fruit vegetables and herbs can be foundspringing up anywhere fromplanters next to bus stops to flowerbeds outside the police station Theproject provides more food locallyand supports food-based learningprojects Support from the councilhas added momentum to the project and access to more land forcultivation
Book Town and Food Town
Specialised High Streets use aconcentration of distinctive products and unique events to attract visitors In 1998 Wigtown became Scotlandrsquos National BookTown It now has more than 20book businesses and a popular annual book festival enticing visitorsto the town specifically for booksNearby Castle Douglas has specialised as a food town wherefood and cooking based eventsserve to create another distinctiveplace to visit
Copenhagen
Since the 1960s the streets ofCopenhagen have radicallychanged Car use has been marginalised and citizens have beenencouraged to cycle with improvedcycle routes ample bike storageand traffic systems that give cyclists priority Around a third of Copenhagenrsquos commuters travel bybike and the city is aiming for half by2015 These measures haveboosted the image of the city nowregarded as one of the most livableplaces in the world
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
30
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Reclaiming vacant spaceImagine the potential of vacant properties on your High Street
Start Up Street
This initiative re-thinks King Street inStirling as a place that supportssuccessful start-up enterprises social and commercial People withideas and talent in Stirling arematched with spaces available onthe street It aims to create a community of people doing thingstogether and supporting each otherin making enterprise work The project is in the early stages of development
Retail Rocks
Retail Rocks is a regeneration initiativethat assists entrepreneurs whowant to start their own business onthe High Street The Scottish Governmentrsquos Town Centre Regeneration Fund backed Aberdeen City Council to pilot thescheme A competition for newbusiness proposals for vacant unitson Torry High Street was heldMnemonic Photography were oneof five winners who now have aunit free of charge for up to 18months with business mentoringThe new photography studio has
already had a positive impact onthe street
Meanwhile Space
Meanwhile use and pop up areterms for the temporary use of vacant shops Meanwhile use helpsto avoid the negative effects thatvacant shops can have on a townMeanwhile Space is a companythat helps community groups realise temporary projects in vacantproperties by providing advice on liaising with local authorities andproperty owners An online forumencourages the sharing of ideasand displays successful meanwhileprojects such as temporary exhibitions and pop-up shops thathave come to fruition
Adaptable Neighbourhoods
Adaptable Neighbourhoods advocates urban renewal from theground up through a diverse network of small enterprises By endeavoring to make the most ofcommunity talent and local heritagethe project suggests that instead ofclearing redundant urban areas weshould look for opportunities andassets that can be exploited AshSakula Architects initiated this proposal suggesting Leicester Waterside as an ideal case study
High Street Remedies High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
31
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Feedback High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Within the exhibition visitors could commentand give their own ideas for the future of theHigh Street Blank tin cans were stacked in ashopping trolley and visitors could write their responses on them We received a huge varietyof responses a selection of them are listed below
How often do you use your High Street and why
bull Every week- Linlithgow- friendly shopkeepers and nice environment
bull Only for take-away shops - therersquos not much else there
bull Three times a week - I want to keep it alivebull Not often enough - use it or loose itbull Rarely - itrsquos a desolation of empty shops for sale
or rentbull Internet is easierbull I come from Renfrew and all you can do there is
go to the Co-op supermarket Its very depressing when I look out my window I dream Irsquom somewhere else
What are the best parts of your High Street
bull Inverurie - a town that is kept thriving by indepent shops - original stuff
bull Getting the bus home- Kirkcaldy is deadbull Real people interacting being inspired by othersrsquo
style expressing individualismbull Window shopping trees food smells people
watching pigeons street musicians recycling bins sculptures
bull Break out spaces to enjoy city lifebull We like local shops independently owned - part
of the communitybull Nail bars charity shops and estate agents - but
at least theyrsquore independentbull If it has a Greggs Irsquom not complaining
bull Cultural things- museums public spaces for interaction to take place
Are High Streets important What should they be used for
bull Very important they should be kept alive for local people - social gathering place - should offer local produce unique to their area - but can they compete with Tesco on price
bull Its not a case of making things the way they were - the High Street should adapt or die
bull Allow internet shopping in the High Street with a diversity of cafes where the business ownersare knowledgeable on what is being sold
bull Yes more culture pleasebull A place to live work play and visit - not just
shopbull Yes They bring communities together and give
them something to share - they should promotecreativity
bull Hugely important - meeting people going out learning living observing talking walking performing
bull A high street should be a place where people can gather not just because they have to but because they want to support the local andindependent stores where they can find interaction
What would make your High Street a better place
bull More independent shops - people with a passion for what they sell less multinational
bull An indoor picnic areabull The High Street opens from 9am - 5pm - every
onersquos at workbull Mini local librarybull Councils and retailers should be placing their
creative communities at the centre of their thinking and at the heart of their town centers - like in Dumfries
bull A museum about local history and its futurebull I would like to see more communal areas so we
can all get to know each otherbull Better pavements Sunday afternoon opening
no litter no dog fouling no graffiti good busesbull Shared space Less division between cars and
people makes cars drive more carefully and means less barriers to pedestrians
bull High street is dying - convert empties into flats to bring back life
bull Needs more events book signings buskers parades and arts - not just money grabbing
bull Use vacant units for community projects (not just charity shops)
bull Make it attractive enough to enjoy without actually shopping
bull More variety and independent shops local produce easily available performance music art buskers
ldquoA high street should be a placewhere people can gather not justbecause th ey have to but because they want to support thelocal and independent storeswhere they can find interactionrdquo
32
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Visitor Comments High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Very interesting As a current MSc Urban Studiesstudent this exhibition is giving me great knowledge and interest in the city and retail Thank you Rachael Treacher Liverpool UK
Great exhibition well laid out mix of media propsand graphics Maybe take this data and researchinto analysis of space and footfall size of streetpavement etc Green space seating Neil UK
Very relevant as our city centre is half vibrant shopping experience half ghost town I misssmaller independent shops but they donrsquot survivelong in Plymouth due to their higher prices and low wages down thereRachel Acton Plymouth
Good exhibition on such an important subject withthe internet stripping out many products from TownCentres We need to find a way of providing a newhappy shopping experience in towns for examplefree and good car parking Glasgowrsquos west endcertainly provides great community shoppingL and P Greenberry England (enclosed one Totnes Pound)
Interesting - as commercialism is such a huge partof our culture - questioning how why this isIMPORTANT - combine positives from successfuleconomy and supporting communityRSB Melville USA
Very impressed with the clear (and well designed)product descriptions for the displays Veryinterested in the Lewes pound initiativeStewart McCardie Glasgow
Glasgow planners do little to enhance the look ofour shopping streets A plethora of ugly cheapshop fronts ruin tenement buildings at ground floorlevel There should be strict planning controls andrestoration of appropriate historical dimensions toshop facades on old buildings to make them morewelcomingJohn Nicolson Scotland
Entertaining and educationalJamie Forman USA
Really good valid debate It effects the whole of theUK Saying that I am loving the space in the streetsof Glasgow (not so crowded less cluttered lovely)Teresa and Sophie McMeakin
The filmed interviews were a fascinating collectionof views - many interesting some not This is acomplex subject which Irsquom not sure we understand yet but the solutions isare not simpleI agree with Mary Portas - if we make our streetsinteresting and pleasant social spaces - eg whereyou can sit (sheltered in Scotland) and talk withyour friends the economic activity will followColin McLean Peebles
I think that itrsquos a great subject to raise I think thatthere should be more to do other than shoppingand eating Not just museums but somewhere thatis a social hub to meet new friendly peopleQuyen Pitan EnglandJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
Very relevant to todayrsquos society Looking back tosee how we got here and looking forward to seewhat the current trends might ultimately lead toMary Tibbet Bristol
Very interesting Found things out that I did notknow about my own High Street and othersSam Valutin Elgin
Excellent presentation - but regretfully our localtown has 12 empty shops - very few locals andonly a few nationals left after the march of the supermarketsDavid and Anne Thomson Glencoe
Wonderful exhibitionCelia Spain
Well presented and organized - a valueable resourceAngela and Leah Acherton Roberts London
Reflective of not only the High Street but sadly thedisconnected state of communities today which ultimately affects the individuals sense of belonging a capitalist downward spiral Great this isbeing highlightedL Logan Glasgow
Time we got Kirkintilloch moving again - your exhibitionrsquos got me motivated very goodColin Barrows Scotland
Great thanks Brilliant designSin Ching Wom Hong Kong
Acknowledges a real problem - not just in Scotland- in an interesting way Makes me think things canactually be done - and should be - to help HighStreets across Britain etcFrances England
ldquoA very intelligent stimulating exhibition It deserves wide recognition I hope it is truly influentialVery thought provoking Not somuch a traditional exhibition as aresearch thesis - but so much better presented than those normally arerdquoJohn R Hume amp Kate Byrne Scotland
33
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
34 High Street Exhibition Images by Alan Dimmick and Graham Wylie
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
35
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
36
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
37
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Exhibition Images High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
38
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
High Street Resources High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
High StreetCross Curricular Learning Resource
Designed as a cross-curricular project for upper primaryor lower secondary classes this resource has been designed so that you can develop a week long fully immersive project or pick and choose one off elements toenhance normal classroom practice
The lesson plans are intended to provide inspiration andguidance for using your local built environment as ateaching resource across all areas of the Curriculum forExcellence developing the four capacities through issuesof sustainability environmental education heritage and citizenship The suggested activities promote creativityand reflective thinking through applying learning acrosssubjects and tasks to extend and develop skills
A downloadable PDF version of this pack is available onthe Architecture and Design Scotland websitewwwadsorgukaccess
This resource is also available as a printed toolkit please contact educationadsorguk for your freepack which includes
- High Street tote bag- Teacher booklet with 5 lesson plans additional links
and a glossary- A2 wall poster- Photocopy student sheets- 2 postcard kits on architectural details and signage- 6 cards on shop front design styles
Re-imagining Alternative High Street Futures Workshop
To accompany the exhibition Architecture and DesignScotland hosted a day of workshops to explore the possible futures for Scottish High Streets and to gathercontributions that would help shape the emerging actionplan on town centres by the Scottish Government In twoseparate sessions policymakers practitioners and researchers in the field of town centre management andcreative industry practitioners were invited to share theirideas for creative and alternative High Street futures
Writer and commentator Julian Dobson started the discussion with a presentation on re-imagining the HighStreet as a social space Julianrsquos submission with UrbanPollinators informed the recent Mary Portas Review ofHigh Streets Further details of the workshop and a pdfsummary can be found here
wwwadsorguknewsre-imagining-alternative-high-street-futures-seminar
High Street (Remedies)Digital Resource
Wigan Plus Cardwwwadsorgukaccess
The Bakerywwwadsorgukaccess
Lewes Poundwwwadsorgukaccess
The Peoples Supermarketwwwadsorgukaccess
Super Hero Supply Storewwwadsorgukaccess
Workshop 24wwwadsorgukaccess
Allotmentwwwadsorgukaccess
Theatre Absolutewwwadsorgukaccess
Book Town and Food Townwwwadsorgukaccess
Incredible Edible Todmordenwwwadsorgukaccess
Pavement to Parkswwwadsorgukaccess
Copenhagenwwwadsorgukaccess
Start Up Streetwwwadsorgukaccess
Retail Rockswwwadsorgukaccess
Meanwhile Spacewwwadsorgukaccess
Adaptable Neighbourhoodswwwadsorgukaccess
39
wwwwiganpluscom
wwwthebakerydunbarorg
wwwthelewespoundorg
wwwthepeoplessupermarketorg
wwwsuperherosuppliescom
wwwworkshop24tumblrcom
wwwnationaltheatrescotlandcom
wwwtheatreabsolutecouk
wwwwigtown-booktowncouk wwwcd-foodtownorg
wwwincredible-edible-todmordencouk
wwwsfpavementtoparkssfplanningorg
wwwstreetfilmsorgcopenhagen
wwwstartupstreetstirlingwordpresscom
wwwretailrocksaberdeencom
wwwmeanwhilespacecom
wwwadaptableneighbourhoodscomwaterside
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40
Exhibition PartnerRoyal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland
High Street Credits High Street ExhibitionContent and Resource
Curated byArchitecture and Design Scotland
Design and FilmsStone Opera
Graphic DesignSuisse
Model MakerChris Wotherspoon
Exhibition FabricationTouchwood
High Street Shops TextLindsay Lennie
With thanks to All Film ParticipantsAnn HallidayAsh Sakula ArchitectsBBC ScotlandBill ScottCarol ForemanCharles McKeanDumfries and Galloway LibrariesDumfries Museum and Camera ObscuraElspeth BairdFiona HayesGlasgow Life (Glasgow Museums)Historic ScotlandIrene WallaceLindsay LennieNational Theatre of ScotlandPat LeggateSainsbury ArchiveSnookSouth Ayrshire CouncilWigan Plus
The High Street Exhibition was present at The LighthouseDecember 2011 - April 2012
40