Brockhole Jetty

designed by Planit-IE /

Location: UK / Type: Rest stops / Waterfronts / Built: 2011 /
Show on Google Maps / Published on January 16, 2013

Planit-IE: The Proposals: To create a new jetty and land-side facility at the Lake District National Park Visitor Centre in Brockhole. This facility is the first purpose- built jetty for the Lake cruisers to be built on Windermere for 70 years, and as such forms a significant enhancement to the Lake District-wide visitor experience and to the existing facilities at Brockhole. The primary purpose of the jetty is to accommodate the large vessels operated by Windermere Lake Cruises, whilst integrating fully into the surrounding sensitive landscape setting of the Lake and the adjacent Thomas Mawson garden.

Such a sensitive location presented a number of problems and constraints, perhaps the most difficult balance to strike was whether the land-side structures should be visible or not. If the facility was to become a true gateway to the National Park then it should announce itself, however given the nature of the landscape setting, it had to be a sensitive response to the site. Whilst the Thomas Mawson gardens that surround the house were conceived to capture the long dramatic views, the topography local to the jetty site hides the lake edge and the landscape along it. This provided the solution to create something ‘hidden’ within the grounds, not impacting upon the landscape setting of the house.

The concept for the project has been driven by a practical solution to access, movement and visual and environmental sensitivity. The design has been inspired by its surroundings; existing landscape features have all influenced the designs development.

Our response has been appropriate to location, the use of local materials and craftsmanship has ensured that the land-side works showcase Cumbrian skills that articulate high design quality. Local knowledge and material choice has provided a fitting and robust response able to withstand the changeable microclimate. The project has been delivered with minimal environmental impact, structures carefully located to avoid existing tree roots and badger access provided below the deck. Future growth of trees within the decked areas has also been considered through thoughtful detailing.

Sustainability has underpinned the construction of this project. The operation of the jetty also supports this sustainable philosophy, Brockhole Jetty now provides a ‘park and sail’ offer that previously did not exist. The end result engages visitors with the natural beauty of its setting, championing sustainable travel and showcasing local expertise.

Landscape Architecture: Planit-IE
Project name: Brockhole Jetty
Client: Lake District National Park Authority Project Management + Cost
Consultants: Turner and Townsend
Contractor/Fabricator: Chris Brammall Ltd
Location: Brockhole Visitor Centre, Cumbria, UK
Budget: £180,000
Area: 0.05 Hectares
Construction period: January 2011 – April 2011
Winning awards: Landscape Institute Design Under 1ha Winner 2012
Text + Photography: Planit-IE