Progress So Far
February 2004: RIBA architectural design competition was held to enable ideas to be gained from designers and architects on the best use for the Castle Lane area. In total, 69 submissions were received;
May 2004: Final 6 designs featured at the third Town Centre Exhibition. First prize was awarded to Ash Sakula architects;
January 2005: The Council appointed Complex Development Projects (CDP) as the preferred development partner and invited them to submit detailed development proposals;
March 2005: Reconnaissance ground penetrating radar surveys were undertaken;
July 2005: Exhibition held by CDP featuring indicative scheme layout designs during National Archaeology Week as well the re-excavation of trenches to assess their state of preservation;
February 2006: Successfully obtained £2.8 million GAF2 funding from the former ODPM for the necessary archaeological works associated with the development as well as the creation of an archaeological park
April 2006: Public consultation exhibition held
July 2006: Submission of a detailed planning application
October 2006: Planning application approved
March 2007: Site works commenced at Castle Lane and will last approximately 18 months
Proposed Uses
The Castle Lane area has been identified as a mixed residential and retail scheme which will include:
outdoor archaeological park
lime kiln vault
3 restaurants
8 specialist retail units
103 residential dwellings
The council wants Castle Lane to become Bedford’s new ‘cultural quarter’. It represents an exciting and quality development in an area of archaeological significance and embraces the display and interpretation of the Lime Kiln (a scheduled ancient monument) seen through glass and the excavation, stabilisation and display of the ruins of the inner bailey in the open-air archaeology park. The restaurants are contemporary in design and have glass walls which give them a very open feel giving way to views of Castle Mound, the Archaeological Park and the river. A landmark contemporary terrace completes an attractive and interesting scheme that will add significantly to the cultural experience. Traditional buildings to the north of the site comprise residential units and ground floor retail units fronting the original Castle Lane, with detailing to the buildings to identify local architectural references.
