Landscape Designer

Project |02 Room for a View (mentor Chris Beardsaw)

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Lichfield has a rich tapestry of history dating back to pre-Roman times but much of today’s interest revolves around the stunning Cathedral. In the shadow of this great monument is Stowe Pool a reservoir originally built in the Victorian times to supply the people of Lichfield with clean water. However, today it is more of a wildlife sanctuary and a popular spot for runners. Historically, part of the surrounding pathway belongs to the pilgrimage route of St. Chad and runs adjacent to a ‘bowl-like’ field which is prone to flooding and is synonymous with the previous marshy area known locally as the ‘Moggs’. This under utilised space gives little or no indication of the stunning views across the water as the reservoir is raised above a bank. The proposal is therefore to develop and define the space leading up to a viewing point, creating a journey, transition, and sense of anticipation through the predominant use of plant materials and within the context of pilgrimage. In response to improving the local economy and raising capital funds, it is proposed to link the site with the ‘St. Chad’s Way’ project. This ties in with a new mood of enthusiasm for active spirituality of pilgrimage in a way that is relevant to today’s society as well as bringing economic and cultural benefits to the local area it also improves access and renewed interpretation of significant historical sites.