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• Download PDF of Town Centres - Unique Places (.pdf, 2M)
• Pride of Place (.pdf, 1.8m)

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Public Art

A number of public art opportunities have been identified within Bargoed town centre. Public art can bring further distinction, creativity and imagination to the urban environment, while improving legibility and enjoyment of the environment.

Public art can:

• Improve the quality and design of public spaces
• Engender pride and ownership
• Create attractive focal points
• Interpret the area
• Develop an Identity

Some ideas that have been developed for Bargoed include:

Hanbury Square Poetry Project
The stone paving and steps on Hanbury Square lend themselves to a lettering/poetry project, which would be part of a community literature project, involving local schools and community groups in creating text and imagery about their community. The text and imagery could then be letter cut into the paving.

Viewpoint Sculpture
The viewing platform provides great views across the valley. This site would benefit from a beacon sculpture looking across the valley, creating a landmark for those passing on the new road below and focal point for the town.

The sculpture would be lit at night to make it highly visible, especially in the winter months.

Use of colour
Key buildings within the town could be painted in different colours. An artist could be appointed to carefully select the colours appropriate for the buildings.

Wooden Wall
A wooden wall is proposed along the new pedestrian link from the bus station to High street. This would act as a strong design feature that will bring warmth and originality to this part of town.

An artist could be commissioned who works with native woods to advise of the project, help to source appropriate supplies of timber, as well as having a creative input into the design, construction and installation.

Palette of materials
The designs encompass both distinctive street furniture and high quality materials. Trees such as flowering cherry will be planted along the high street, creating a more quality setting.
At Hanbury Square, red maple and pine trees will be planted to differentiate the area from the high street and enhance its appeal as an arrival point into the town.

Paving materials such as sawn stone/pennant as well as granite will add robustness and value to the streetscene in the primary retail area.

Functional yet innovative street furniture will be introduced throughout the town to enhance the message that Bargoed is moving forward.