Connecting Hoxton Design Consultation
PACKAGE 3 – Tyssen Street to Hare Walk
Objective: Strengthening Hoxton’s identity and putting community at the heart of development
Current Situation
This area covers part of Tyssen Street, which was incorporated into the Arden Estate in the 1960s, and the courtyard shared by Cordelia House and Rosalind House. Although the street layout changed when the estate was built, it still acts as a connection between Hoxton Street and Kingsland Road.
The courtyard has mature trees and feels green and sheltered, but the layout creates confusion between where people walk and where vehicles move. Signage is poor, and some of the play equipment is located in hidden corners that are hard for people to use.
Challenges
- The space between Tyssen Street and the courtyard is a bottle neck.
- Three car parking spaces are located in an area used by pedestrians, creating safety risks.
- Parking is spread out across 23 bays in several locations around the courtyard.
- Fencing blocks access to green spaces.
- Play equipment is tucked into dead-end corners near bins, making these spaces less appealing and overlooked.
Proposed Plan Summary
The design aims to improve the courtyard while keeping its positive features, and making it clearer and safer for people walking. It separates pedestrian areas from car movement and improves access to green spaces.
Key Changes
- Pedestrian route: The Tyssen Street section through the courtyard could become a pedestrian-only path to make it safer and easier to use.
- Improved entrance: The narrow space at the courtyard entrance will be widened.
- Parking consolidation: All 23 parking spaces could be moved into one single area at the southern end, reducing conflict between cars and pedestrians.
- Play improvements:
- The main multi-play structure will be moved to a central, well-overlooked location.
- New play elements will be added, including a basket swing, seesaw, a play sculpture and a grass play area (shown in plan).
- Access improvements: The access path to the substation will be moved to allow for more green space.
- New bike stands: Six stands will be added.
- New resident garden: A garden with raised planting beds and espalier trees will be created for residents.
- Greening and biodiversity: New trees, shrubs, bulbs, grassland, ground flora and biodiversity logs are included.
- Seating: A new bench will be installed at the centre of the courtyard.
Planting Vision
The planting will create a calm, woodland feel that builds on the existing birch trees and the literary links in the estate’s name. The design uses a mix of low-maintenance plants that grow well in shade and provide interest throughout the year. This includes soft white and green flowering plants, groundcover that supports wildlife, and scented species such as wild garlic and ferns. The aim is to create a peaceful, natural atmosphere that increases biodiversity and feels welcoming in all seasons.
View drawing – Tyssen Street Courtyard Plan
Can’t see it? Download this drawing as a PDF.