The creation of Intergenerational Links; supporting the conservation of built heritage

The thesis asks how the creation of intergenerational links and place specific regeneration can support the sustainable conservation of built heritage and once again strengthen the collective identity of mining communities. It is hoped that the creation of intergenerational links will bring the Colliery complex back into frequent use and promote a low carbon agenda, since the most sustainable building is a building in use.

Modern day regeneration ideologies favour inner city investment and the creation of transport corridors over place-specific regeneration within towns. This has resulted in many South Wales Valley Towns being reduced to a base for commuters. The design thesis explores how these towns can be regenerated, promoting the low carbon future of former Colliery sites, and reinstating the sense of community and collective identity within former mining communities – the thesis explores these themes through the redevelopment of Crumlin Navigation Colliery.

Heritage is often valued most within the community it is located within. To ensure the redevelopment process was place specific the opinions of the local community needed to be considered. A community questionnaire was distributed to gather local views of the Crumlin area and determine local need. There was a desire for the history of the place to be promoted, public transport links to be improved and for education to be promoted through academic or recreational use of space. The existing buildings on site present architecture formally – they were designed for an Industrial purpose. However, if the site is to be used by the local community it must adapt and become accessible to all. Moments of informal architecture must be encouraged to provide space which encourage social opportunity and interactions between generations. To achieve this; the existing fabric can be sensitively adapted, the new build link can promote crossing points, and places of rest can be encouraged internally and externally. Initial design moves relate to Intergenerational practice, inclusive design principles and site-specific resources. Conclusions were drawn on intergenerational practice, place-specific research, and community consultation to devise a schedule of accommodation which supports proposed intergenerational activities and community need.

To reduce pressure put on public services, improve the health of elderly individuals and improve the attainment of younger individuals the creation of intergenerational relationships has proven invaluable. Intergenerational relationships are always located within a space. Architecture cannot force social interaction but by adopting design principles which actively remove barriers individuals can come together more easily. For this reason, the design focuses on social moments of opportunity. Space becomes a container for whatever function suits the collective – the careful assemblage of activities is a driver for social interaction, therefore, the architecture and building programming must be considered in equal