People in Maryport will be able to get a look at designs for a new generation of signs which could soon be helping people enjoy their town.
Cumbria County Council has been working with consultant contractor Capita to come up with a set of creative design concepts for signs, information panels and special gateways for use in and around Maryport.
The exhibition, at Settlement Maryport on Wednesday, June 11th, between 9.30am and midday, will feature design ideas to make signage in the town useful, logical, legible and aesthetically pleasing.
The exhibition displays will include ideas for signs and examples of two "gateway" designs including a potential structure within the town designed to strengthen the link between the town centre and the harbour (see illustrations attached to this release).
Designers and the artist will be on-hand at the exhibition on Wednesday to explain the Signage and Gateway Strategy for Maryport which covers fingerposts for the town and interpretation panels for areas of particular interest as well as the gateway signs.
After Wednesday, the exhibition itself will remain on display at Maryport library for one week. A comments book will be provided for anyone who wants to have a say.
Cumbria County Council commissioned Capita Symonds to come up with a strategy that will inform those responsible for installing future signage in Maryport about proposed locations, types and costed future maintenance requirements for directional signs, town centre plans and interpretation panels. Suggestions for embracing new technology and a joined-up approach are also covered to maximise the potential of Maryport for both tourists and locals.
Work on the strategy has been supported and funded by the North West Development Agency, Arts Council of England North West and Allerdale Borough Council.
ENDS
Notes
Development in Maryport has increased steadily over recent years and is set to change the dynamics of the seaside town, focusing on tourism as a key economic driver for investment in the town.
The near completion of The Wave Centre in Maryport, investment into regenerating the historic fabric of the town centre and the imminent construction of a new tourist attraction focusing on the town’s rich archaeological importance, are likely to attract tourists and boost the local economy
The need to address how people find their way around town is critical as new buildings and attractions develop. The signage strategy will provide the framework to rationalise and enhance movement around Maryport, identifying unsigned attractions in the town and encouraging visitors to venture further than popular and well-known attractions.
The strategy looks at several key gateways to the town as a point of engagement with visitors and local people as they set out to explore the town, coast and heritage of the area. Indicative future themed trails linking the heritage, maritime, ecological and visual arts interest are proposed to guide people into and around the town, through a series of symbols or iconography incorporated into the fabric of the town.
The aim is to have signs that are unique to Maryport and relate back to its heritage; playing an important role in orientating visitors and making them feel welcome and positive about the area. The proposed signs establish a local distinctiveness to ensure there is a recognisable identity that reflects the overall quality of this destination.
Please note: Cumbria County Council's media team telephone numbers have now changed.
Media enquiries to Justin Hawkins, Media Officer on 01228 226334