Zaun has completed a radically unique solution for the focal point of a new £16.5m town centre in Ashford, Kent.
The project’s centrepiece is a new public square next to Victoria Road School, called John Wallis Square. We have created one-off architectural fencing to lend a natural edge to the square while reducing visibility through to the school beyond.
We drew on our specialist skills in bespoke construction to produce the complex fencing solution, which includes two layers of perforated panels with different-sized apertures creating a zany fence line up to a height of 4m.
An artist designed the scheme to commemorate the pioneering work of John Wallis, a famous Ashford-born mathematician who developed various mathematical theories and introduced the symbol for infinity.
Different materials and finishes have been used to create an art trail with etched text and symbols relating to his work.
Zaun and the main contractors, Volker Fitzpatrick, accommodated several original designs to reduce overall scheme costs. A pavilion was replaced with an additional planting area, and the length of the architectural fencing was reduced.
The £16.5m project secured Community Infrastructure Funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government and the Department for Transport. Kent County Council awarded the contract to Volker in May, and work began in June 2010.
Representatives from Ashford’s Future, Kent County Council, Ashford Borough Council, Volker Fitzpatrick, Zaun and Victoria Road Primary School were among the special guests invited to an event held in July celebrating the start of works.
Victoria Way is a new route to the south of the town centre to link the International Station at Beaver Road and the A28 Chart Road providing better access to the heart of the town.
The new road opened in November 2011, providing an attractive, tree-lined avenue from Victoria Road opposite the train station through brownfield industrial land to join with the A28 near Matalan, including John Wallis Square, public art displays and new shops, restaurants, cafes and homes over time.
