Ensuring Sustainability in Brownfield Revitalisation as PDF

A Case Study - Environmental Profile ‘Voltterrein’ area
The working method for the environmental profile is described on the basis
of practical experience with the ‘Voltterrein’ area. This inner city area will
be transformed into an urban residential area. The site covers about eight
hectares and most of it is owned by three project developers. The
municipality is drawing up a master plan consisting of a programme of
demands and a global development model. The environmental profile is an
integral part of this.
Environmental analysis
Map Voltterrein area
(Source: Atlas inner city industrial estates,
municipality of Tilburg/BRO
The analysis of the environmental situation in the Voltterrein area focuses on:
1. the structuring characteristics of the area;
2. the desired programme for the living and working environment;
3. the environmental situation on site.
Structuring characteristics of the area
The area itself gives an impression of the specific sensitivities and
opportunities for sustainable spatial development and the desired
living/working environment. The location of the Voltterrein site is in a
densely built-up area with predominately low-value, burdensome
enterprises that attract traffic. The city centre is in close proximity and
accessible by car, public transport and bicycle. Thus this area has been
nominated for a more intensive use. In contrast the area is surrounded by
through-roads resulting in traffic noise and poor air quality.
A characteristic feature is the location in the catchment basin of the
streams the Nieuwe Lei and Voorste Stroom. The area is part of an
infiltration zone. However, there is a high degree of asphalting/paving, and
drainage takes place via an old-fashioned mixed drainage system. The
redevelopment could contribute to a recovery of the natural water system.
Less asphalting/paving and disconnection of the buildings from the
drainage system and infiltration facilities is recommended. The room to
realize this can be found in the green aspect of the area. The green
appearance of the area will be greatly improved by connecting it to
surrounding green areas.
Map of infiltration and seepage areas in Tilburg
(Source: Water structure plan, municipality of
Tilburg)
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