review of the todmorden town centre - calderdale...todmorden’s stories to its visitors and indeed...

9 February 2019

Peter McGrail Director

Streetwise Orientation and Navigation Systems Ltd. 89-91 Morrison Street, Edinburgh EH3 8BU

[email protected]

0131 229 5441

Review of theTodmorden Town Centre Wayfinding System Page 34

The map below sets out the different wayfinding elements recommended for the final network. The numbers cross reference back to the detailed commentary for each location, not the individual element. On occasions there is more than one wayfinding element referred to in the text, hence why the same number is repeated.

NReview of the Todmorden Town Centre Wayfinding System

New Monolith/FingerpostNew Monolith onlyNew Fingerpost

Free-standing map frameInstall sign on existing post

Todmorden AreaScale: 1:2500Date: 25 January 2019

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Surveyon behalf of HMSO. © Crown copyright anddatabase right 2018.Ordnance Survey Licence number 100023069.

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Regeneration and Strategy

www.calderdale.gov.uk Map Centre: 393681, 424177

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ContentsOverview and Summary of Findings ........................................................3

The Existing System ..................................................................................4

Route: Rochdale Road to Rise Lane ........................................................6

Route: Rise Lane to Rail Station then to Bus Station Central Area, in and around Town Hall ..................................................22

Route: Todmorden College to Bus Station, Burnley Road ..................28

Understanding Todmorden .....................................................................29

Recommendations ..................................................................................31

Map of wayfinding elements recommended ........................................34

Summary table of recommendations by location ................................35

Draft Project Implementation Budget ...................................................36

Overview and Summary of FindingsStreetwise have been commissioned to undertake a review of the current wayfinding system within an agreed area of Todmorden town centre. We were tasked to consider the system’s suitability to meet the current and future needs of the town and to recommend potential solutions to provide an improved system.

Streetwise has been developing wayfinding and visitor engagement systems since 1998, the first project being the UNESCO World Heritage site of Edinburgh. As well as our expertise and experience, another significant advantage we offer is to bring a third party perspective and a fresh pair of eyes to considering what a location has, and what it required, to meet its needs in terms of wayfinding signage and information. The survey was undertaken over 1.5 days from 2 to 3 November 2018 by Peter McGrail.

Sense of PlaceI found that Todmorden had a strong ‘sense of place’, by which I am referring to having an identity, a configuration that creates spaces of interest and by virtue of various initiatives in the town, a personality. I found a genuine sense of friendliness when engaging with the local people and was made to feel welcome. I feel that this can be built upon and strengthened by a better wayfinding and on-street information system. One of the elements that I felt summed up Todmorden was the existence of the Todmorden Information Office which provides a tremendous source of local knowledge and assistance.

Replace current system I have surveyed the current system, all detailed in this report, and feel that it needs replaced, not simply repairing what is there. The principal system is fingerpost based and this needs to be changed to be principally map and information based with fingerposts providing additional directional signage assistance. This will allow Todmorden to have greater engagement with its visitors; help build further its sense of place, encourage further exploration and strengthen the propensity for people to enjoy their time, come back again and recommend the town to others.

There are on-street information elements that should be kept, these promote particular initiatives and help provide that differentiation and sense of place, the most visible of which is the remarkable Incredible Edible Todmorden.

Content and StyleThe proposed content types are detailed in the report but focus on providing maps, places of interest information and interpretive material, helping to bring Todmorden’s stories to its visitors and indeed local residents. While the hardware for the fingerposts and new monoliths will be new, the style of these should be selected to suit the ambience of Todmorden and a more traditional style is envisaged, not necessarily Victoriana but certainly more traditional than contemporary.

Summary of hardware interventionsThe requirements are detailed for each point and then brought together in one list of a location by location basis. In the report they are also prioritised as high medium and low priority. If all interventions are undertaken, the total would be as given below:

Remove existing fingerposts 7

New fingerpost only 6

New combination monolith/fingerposts points 9

New monolith points only 3

New signs on existing posts 4

New free-standing map frames 4

BudgetThe interventions are prioritised and may not all be adopted, the budget that would allow all to be undertaken has been given in a detailed breakdown. The total to allow the system to be created and installed in its entirety would be around £102,000, excluding VAT.

Fingerpost at junction of Halifax Road, Rochdale Road and Burnley Road

The Existing SystemThe existing system consists of a network of fingerposts. The network is very much centrally based and does not extend to certain of what could be considered gateway points.

The current fingerpost network deals with a number of decision-making points, but the network seems incomplete. Perhaps the best and most important illustration of this is the bus station where guidance is not currently available as part of the town’s own system.

Each of these existing wayfinding elements is dealt with in detail in the network review further on.

FingerpostsThe primary guidance is provided by a network of fingerposts. These are of a style commonly referred to as Victoriana and are traditional cast iron posts with cast iron finger blades with the legend in white. They are all of the same colour, green, and their condition varies across the network. The condition of each is commented on for each point.

The mechanism for fixing the finger blades is a collar system with each being fixed in place by tightening grub screws. This type of unit has the advantage that blades can be fixed at absolutely any angle required but unfortunately it leaves them open to tampering and those who find it amusing to point blades away from the true direction of the intended destination. This was found to be the case at certain points, this is commented on at each point.

Map and Information pointsI came across a few map points. These are of a traditional style principally. They too are in green and, as with the fingerposts, they are in variable condition, some fairly poor while others were cleaner and the paint in better condition.

Notice BoardOutside of what used to be the Town Hall, there is a public notice board. In a simple style, neither ultra-modern nor Victoriana. It is in very good condition and kept up to date. There is no town map included within its display area.

Bus Station MapAs you head into the town centre from the bus station, there is a small local area map included on the large totem that place marks the bus station. It is not able to accommodate information of any extensive nature.

Lamppost BannersI saw on Rochdale Road that there was a lamppost banner. This technique is not great for wayfinding in terms of permanent assistance, they are very good for promoting events/festivals etc and I would have thought that more of this sort of signage could be put to good use in parts of the town, especially at the gateway points.

Map point at junction of Longfield Road/ Rochdale Road

Notice Board in front of ‘Town Hall’

Map on large totem

Route: Rochdale Road, north of Morrison’s supermarket to Rise Lane1 Bus stop opposite Morrisons Supermarket on way to Salford Way – No new WF elements requiredAt this point, the natural navigation (by which I mean the guidance given simply by what can be seen around you) as you enter the town is sufficiently strong that no wayfinding assistance is needed here. This point is close to Watershed Care Home and visitors to it may wish to enter the town, but those arriving from the south will know they have not yet entered and those arriving from the north will have already encountered the town centre.

2 Salford Way/Rochdale Road – No wayfinding requiredNot far on from point 1, again the natural navigation takes you towards the town centre. You can see in the distance to the right, a fingerpost and a plaque of some sorts and those seeking assistance will be drawn to that point. Please note, there is only one street name plate here, it is on the north side.

1 – Towards south 1 – Towards Salford Way and town centre

2 – Towards town centre 2 – Towards south across Salford Way

3 Longfield Road/Rochdale Road New fingerpost/monolith unit – high priority This is a gateway point to the town centre and as there is a clear choice of direction to make, although the town centre itself is reasonably obvious in terms of natural navigation, there is a need to have assistance. The current fingerpost is doing a decent job of directing you to some key things but those curious as to where Longfield Road leads are left wondering. The hardware for the FP is of a traditional Victoriana style and is in what I assume to be the corporate colour for the town. It needs cleaning and even repainting. One finger points to Tourist Information and so I suspect there was one under that title at one point. At the moment there is an ‘information office’ that fulfils that role and so it is still of use to sign a TIC. In addition, there is a plaque explaining the importance of the river to the town and indeed the regions’ industrial history.

At this point, there needs to be map that will allow you to understand the choices to be made and allow you to start to understand the context of the town centre and surrounds. It is also a good point to welcome the visitor if coming from the south or to inform the visitor what is ahead of them to the south.

NNew Monolith/ FingerpostNew Monolith onlyNew Fingerpost




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3 – View towards Longfield Road coming from Salford Way

3 – View towards town centre at junction of Longfield Road and Rochdale Road, cluster of elements

3 – Interpretive panel at Longfield Rd junction

3 – Fingerpost at Longfield Road, poor condition

4 Fielden Square/Golden Lion/Rochdale Road – monolith to carry map and interpretive material, lower priorityThis is not very far from 3 where I am recommending an FP/Monolith point. It is an interesting area and there is public sculpture and access to the side of the Rochdale Canal, albeit blocked at the far end. This point could be highlighted as part of the information at point 3 above. There is a large ‘social’ area here and facilities. In strictly wayfinding terms, I feel that it is clear where to access the town centre when coming from the south. As you will see below, there is need to have some wayfinding assistance on the north side of the canal. Here, however, I think there would be sufficient material to justify some sort of monolith carrying interpretive material and a map, lower priority if budget constraints apply. This could be positioned in the are just south of the canal within a few metres of the road/bridge, it would serve those arriving by boat from the canal. There are also public toilets on this side of the canal, part of the service station for the canal boats, but those could be signed on the monolith.

4 – Golden Lion pub/restaurant is an important land mark, not far from Longfield Road

4 – View to town centre from Golden Lion 4 – The waterside offers high quality leisure space

4 – There is ample space for wayfinding elements





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5 South west side of bridge over Rochdale Canal on Rochdale Road – Todmorden Lock No19 – New fingerpost, lower priorityAt this point there is a post carrying two blue highway finger signs. They would appear to be intended to guide those arriving by the side of the canal and those arriving either side of the bridge. One is certainly skewed, a common problem with signs of this nature. There are no distances given on the blades. To save money these could be left as they are but turned in the correct direction. The problem I see is that we also need to sign the north east side of the canal tow path within what is only a few yards. As there are no distances on these signs and I recommend that distances are given as a fundamental part of any new system, I think it would be good to replace this sign with a fingerpost as part of a new system.

5 – This cluster of blue signs to be replaced by new fingerpost

5 – Blue signs to be replaced by a new fingerpost

5 – View to town centre from blue signs point

5 – View up canal side towards lock





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6 North west side of bridge on Rochdale Road/Todmorden Lock No19 – custom free-standing panel to replace current signage to make clear the way to access north east side of canal – high priorityThis is an interesting spot and not easy to navigate. As with the south side there is a blue blade highway fingerpost but again the blades have been skewed and point to the town centre and station in the wrong direction.

There is a blade pointing to Rochdale Canal and Hebden Bridge, it points across the road, but in fact, it is only accessible by taking a pedestrian passage found by going in the opposite direction, not obvious at all. I will talk of the initiatives elsewhere, but this is a point at which I would recommend, not a full monolith, but some sort of free-standing display which makes your choices clear. This could be placed in the niche presented where the low wall meets the bridge wall. This would also make clear what awaits the visitor at the side of the canal on both the west and east sides.

Also, clearly visible here are two panels, one on the Great Todmorden Way highlighting an innovative fresh produce community initiative and also something called The Green Route with a panel on the life of bees.

North east side of Rochdale CanalThis is not a wayfinding comment. The images show the area accessed via the passage under the bridge. It is a very agreeable spot and we see panels on the various initiatives. These themselves are talked of elsewhere, the point I am making here is that there are hidden gems that are charming. These, along with the other aspects, including the Incredible Todmorden Way initiative, result in the town telling the visitor of its personality.

6 – Blue signs on post on north side of bridge

6 – Niche points like this provide a sense of place and of discovery for visitors

6 – Access to Rochdale canal towpath via steeply sloped cobbled tunnel under bridge

6 – Panels on The Incredible Todmorden Way can be found throughout the town

6 – Access to Rochdale canal towpath via steeply sloped cobbled tunnel under bridge





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7 Along towpath of Rochdale Canal towards lock 18/Oxford St Car Park – two new finger blades on existing post – high priorityAs you can see in the images, there is a post without a sign, suspect this was pointing to the town centre at some point, would be useful to have a simple sign so recommend that this is installed on the same post, two new finger blades allowed for in the budget. There is a very small car park here, likely only to be locals who use it and I don’t think there is enough to gain by installing anything.

8 Dale Street Car Park – nothing requiredNot far from the Oxford Street car park is the Dale Street car park. Not part of our remit, but the policy on car parks is curious in Todmorden as within a stone’s throw of each other we seem to have car parks that are free and others where charges apply. There seems to the visitor, no particular logic to which are free and those that are not. It is likely that the free car parks represent some sort of concession to the local shopkeepers and residents.

The 60p charge per hour is modest by any standards but I suspect that stumbling across a free car park next door to my paid space may leave me wondering why it is free. Anyway, local politics are not my concern. In Dale Street car park and in Oxford Street car park, I feel that the chances of other than ‘knowledgeable’ locals re using them and therefore, it is not necessary to invest in map points in these locations.

7 – Finger signs to be added to the existing grey post as seen in this image and the one below

8 – Small car park, likely to be used by locals mainly





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9 Lever Street Car Park – Rochdale Canal (with Union Street South Car Park nearby) – Free standing map frame – medium priority and potentially a new fingerpost – lower priority.This is a good point to talk about the nature of Todmorden for pedestrians. Aside from the roads/pavements, there are paths along the canal route. Signing from the canal to the town centre and to other destinations such as the station proves a little complicated as we are led around by our noses, with the view from the sign often being less than convincing. By this point here, we may have already encountered blue highway finger signs that have been skewed by someone up to mischief, and our confidence has been shaken. What we need to have is confidence in the system and to be able to understand the layout of the town and where we are within its boundaries. While the canal adds a great deal of interest and an agreeable environment, it does add some complication to navigation for pedestrians, if it is signed as the primary route to a destination. At this point, the blue signs are directing us along the canal side to the Rail Station and pointing to the right for Town Centre and Bus Station. These are correct, except when we look at what we can see in those directions, it is not very convincing. On top of this, if we take the canal side, we are faced with a passage through the underneath of the bridge that is very steep and not at all suitable for many people, especially the infirm. From here, the station can also be accessed by sending people in the same direction as Town Centre and Bus Station and then up Halifax Road.

This is a point to reflect on the use of maps. The town lacks maps and there will be occasions when what is needed is a map, not only a sign. This will allow users to see where they are in relation to the town centre and what route choices they have to their destination. At this point here, I see little advantage in directing people along the canal, given what lies ahead which is confusing, albeit scenic.

Here at the canal side, essentially in the car park space, we have what I presume is a series of monoliths that we will come across at other points on the Rochdale Canal. As well as the monolith there are brass marker plates showing distances and canal detail. Not far away is a bronze globe. When installed, these will have looked very impressive.

9 – The canal two path provides alternative access to the town centre via the car park

9 – This blue sign is useful but signing would be better to be a new fingerpost





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9 Lever Street Car Park (Continued) There is real interest, generally, in industrial heritage and the content of the monolith is interesting. What is a great shame, is that whoever specified the materials, has used some sort of steel, not stainless steel, and the whole monolith is marred by rust traces from rainwater trickling down and they do not look attractive as a result. This tells the visitor that nobody cares about the units and it reflects badly on the town. It may be the case that it is not the responsibility of the town, but that is how it will be interpreted. These can be refurbished and should be. The graphic panels may clean up, but they can certainly be replaced. The metalwork will need brazed and then painted with specialist paints that deoxidise rust and seal the surface and protect the metal. This is not the subject of our work but in terms of visitor engagement, these were a good idea, and can be again. We of course, have not allowed for this in any costs as I am sure the responsibility for these units lies elsewhere.

In the same area we have two car parks, Lever Street and so close by, Union Street South, that they seem like one and the same. These car parks are not the largest in the town, but they do seem likely to be used by visitors, by which I mean those not residing in the town centre itself. They could be visitors from the local area who come frequently to the town or those who have never been to Todmorden before. These car parks present an opportunity to communicate with the visitor and help them to understand where they are in relation to it and the choices that are on offer to them. It is for this reason that I recommend that a map panel depicting the town centre is presented here. There are various points that it could be installed but one could certainly be presented alongside the pay and display car park name panel, the Lever Street one which will also be clearly visible from Union Street South car park.

In terms of signage, the blue highway type signs serve their purpose and as such do not need replaced. The only reason to do so would be to bring them into line with what will become the primary system and then they would be replaced by a fingerpost. To a degree they are placed in curious position and it may be that a fingerpost would be positioned close to the top of the ramp that takes you down to the canal side. There is sufficient space to do so. Again, note that these signs carry no indication of distances to destinations.

9 – Rochdale Canal monolith above and right, they are in a poor condition

9 – Union Street car park, right beside Lever Street

10 Hall Street/Rochdale Road, Public Library – wall mounted or free-standing map frame – lower priorityAt this junction there is no wayfinding assistance. As you can see from the images above, we can see ahead what seems like the town centre and it is unlikely that we would be drawn up Hall Street. The pavement is relatively tight when we avoid the textured paving. I do not think it would be sensible to have a fingerpost here in terms of return on investment and need. One thing, however, this is the library and when I called in to ask if they had a map of the town, I was disappointed to find that they had nothing available. People have an expectation of assistance in public libraries and it should be the case that a visitor can be provided with something, even at a small charge. What I recommend at this spot is a wall mounted or free -standing frame that will carry a town centre map and some interpretive information on the library itself and this part of the town. There is a space that is protected to the right of the bin, a little low on the wall but would work sufficiently well.

11 Water Street/Rochdale Road – new fingerpost – high priorityThis junction asks the visitor to make a choice, the route down Water Street looks interesting, we can see it leads to shops and restaurants. There is no wayfinding assistance here and there needs to be. There is very little space for anything other than a fingerpost, but this could be located on the north east corner. Care will be needed to avoid obscuring the No Entry sign. It could be tucked in the corner where the low wall meets the building wall and it would serve those coming from the south more than the north, but should someone be looking for assistance they will find it or they will see the map recommended in front of the library which is accessible via the pedestrian crossing. From this point on you have been directed to what is the heart of the town centre

10 – View from Library to Water Street

10 – Space for free standing or wall mounted map 11 – The fingerpost could be located on the pavement seen in the foreground of this photo





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Route: Rise Lane to Rail Station and down Station Approach then to Bus Station12 Rise Lane/Rochdale Road, leading to Rail Station – new fingerpost – high priorityJust after Water Street when heading north, on the opposite side we come to Rise Lane that leads up to the Rail Station. There is a small blue sign strapped to a highway sign post that points to the station using the rail station icon. You could miss it but at least it is there. Although tight, I recommend that a fingerpost is installed on the north west corner, this will clearly signal the station, also the town centre and the canal.

12 – The Rail Station is visible from Rochdale Road but not clearly

12 – The sign to the rail station could be easily missed

12 – The sign to the rail station could be easily missed, as these images indicate





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13 Outside of the rail station on Station Approach/Rise Lane – remove existing blue signs and fingerpost, replace them with a fingerpost/monolith unit in position of current blue signs – high priority.The station is an important arrival point to Todmorden. The welcome and information is a bit all over the place and needs nailed down. The images show the immediate exterior on leaving the station and what there is within the exit/entrance area.

The rail station has an information point, and this does include a local area map which shows in particular the bus station. When exiting the station, opposite, we can see some blue highway finger signs directly opposite. There are two posts supporting two signs and as you will see the signs both sign Town Centre and Bus Station. One carries a cycling symbol and a pedestrian symbol and the other has an Accessible symbol and a pedestrian. This is due to there being steps on the first route.

Again, on the opposite side of the entrance to the rail station, to the left of the signs discussed above, we can see two further wayfinding elements. One is a Victoriana style fingerpost in green and beyond it, against the wall, is a welcome board that carries a map of the town centre. These are in front of and beyond the hotel. So, to a degree, we have an overprovision of information with much of it not particularly well placed. For sure we need a map at the exterior of the station. It makes sense that this is positioned as close as possible to the station and not partially down the slope on one of the routes. What I recommend here is that a new fingerpost/monolith unit positioned where the blue signs are now. This will deliver both directional signage and mapping plus interpretive information in on place and allow the welcome to be more definite, the choices open to the visitor to be clear and the most appropriate route selected. The current fingerpost and blue signs would be removed. The current Victoriana map display could perhaps be kept, it currently covers the Todmorden Centenary Way, but if not this, it could cover other information of interest to people generally. It needs some refurbishment but this I simply a question of cleaning and repainting.

13 – Information panels to left when exiting rail station

13 – Location of bus station relative to rail station is shown

13 – This display could be kept and used continue to promote the Incredible Todmorden Way

13 – The location of the current blue signs would be the best position for a new fingerpost/monolith





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14 Station Approach to Burnley Road (but not including that junction) – fingerpost and one new finger sign – high priorityThis stretch needs a few comments.

There is a fair number of blue highway signs around aimed at both cyclists and pedestrians. Hard up against the Rail Station is a sign for national cycling route 66 to Walsden and Littleborough. Then further down the slope, on the left side we have a sign for Bus Station and Town Centre.

These are both aimed at the interests of cyclists and should remain. In fact, I am concluding, that it would be sensible to maintain the blue highway signs but to solely purpose them to deliver information to cyclists, not pedestrians. That way, both groups of users will learn what to be looking out for, whereas currently they can be for either or both at any one time.

At the bottom of the first stretch of Station Approach, there are blue signs intended for both cyclists and pedestrians. Just before the bridge there is a sign for a path that will take the to close to the bus station on Burnley Road. This seems to be a sensible route option but I think there should be a fingerpost here as part of the primary system, this would replace the blue sign. The other blue signs in the area can be left as they are now.

In addition, we can see a Tourist Information sign on the east side of the street pointing down some steps, this is also another route that could be taken to the bus station. The use of a monolith opposite the station will allow the visitor to have seen these routes on a local area map, these signs will then be prompters more than primary markers.

This sign should be replaced with a sign for the Bus Station and the Todmorden Information Office.

14 – Steps leading to White Hart Fold are signed for Tourist information, a sign can be retained here but it should sign the Bus Station and the Information Office

14 – Close to the station there is a blue sign pointing to the national cycle route, this can be left as is

14 – Blue sign to town centre and bus station can be left as it is now.





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15 Station Approach/Burnley Road – new fingerpost and a wall plate – high priorityAt the foot of Station Approach at the junction with Burnley Road, we have two posts supporting blue signs. One for Todmorden High School and Sports Centre via the Park. There is no indication of the station but a totem for the station is visible up the hill. I think that both these posts should be removed and replaced on the north side with a new fingerpost that will sign the station. Then at the bottom of White Hart Fold, a simple wall plate directional sign for the station should be mounted.

16 Back Ridge – nothing requiredBit of an odd one here. This is essentially a path that leads from Dog House Lane to beside the college at Queen Street. I am not of the opinion that it offers any particular attribute or advantage and therefore suggest that it is best left to local knowledge. I include an image here of it from Dog House Lane and I suspect this vehicle is almost a permanent fixture, as it was parked there on both days of my visit.

16 – Access to Back Ridge from rail station side

15 – Blue signs at junction with Burnley Road are not particularly clear





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17 Path down from railway bridge to opposite Bus Station – new fingerpost and remove existing blue signs – medium priorityThe order I have put the last few points in is symptomatic of the dilemma faced by visitors; there are various routes that could be taken, each has their merits.

Here I look at the path that can take you from half way down Station Approach to the Bus Station. This path provides a good route between the bus station and the rail station.

At the Burnley Road end, the path is hidden by trees and looks more like it would lead to a park, than the rail station. The blue highway signs are partially hidden by the tree branches and these needs pruned back regularly. What I recommend at the junction of the path with Burnley Road is a new fingerpost positioned on the pavement close to the entrance. At the rail station end, the visitor will be met by the fingerpost recommended for that point, as discussed earlier. It is not easy to cross the road at the point seen here. To the south on Burnley Road, there is a pedestrian crossing that takes you to and from the market place, it is not far, but this will pose a challenge to the signage and so the bus station should really be signed via the crossing.





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18 Burnley Road opposite the Markets – new fingerpost/monolith unit and remove existing fingerpost and blue highway signs – high priorityThis is currently one of the most important points in the town centre, but not the most important. It is currently the most obvious centres of wayfinding assistance, second only to that at the rail station. There is a pedestrian crossing next to it or I should say, it is next to a crossing. This crossing can take you to and from the bus station and the market place. The markets are both outdoor stalls and indoor market. As well as the Victoriana fingerpost, we can also see blue highway finger signs. The blue signs direct to the rail station only, showing the accessible route and the cycling route, both being suitable for pedestrians. This spot is suitable to have a map unit also and so I recommend that the current fingerpost and the blue signs are both removed and at the same point as the current fingerpost, a combined fingerpost/monolith unit is installed.

18 – View towards fingerpost from east side of Burnley Road; closer up view below.

18 – Fingerpost/Monolith unit would replace existing fingerpost at same location. The fingerpost itself is in reasonably good condition.

18 – This is the crossing that would be used going to and coming from the bus station to the rail station

18 – View across Burnley Road to Market place, crossing that would be taken to go to and from Bus Station to Rail Station





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19 Burnley Road/Bus Station – New Monolith – high priorityAs we leave the bus station there is virtually no wayfinding assistance other than a blue highway sign up high pointing to Walsden and Littleborough; plus, there is an M totem on which we can see the route to the rail station, but very little else. It does not make it clear where you are, and it is a north up map while you face south. I suspect that most people do not manage to fathom out easily where to go. This is not helped by the fact that the words Todmorden Bus Station are printed on the other side of the road to where it actually is, even although the bus stance numbers are on the correct side.

It takes very little to hinder people from understanding maps and they need to be designed to take account of that.

Despite the fact that I am recommending a fingerpost/monolith point opposite the market place, here we need an effective wayfinding element and I recommend the use of a monolith. It does not need to be a fingerpost/monolith, but it should probably be in the same area as the M monolith to allow users to understand the context of what it is telling them. It is an opportunity to welcome people and influence their visit, a true gateway point.

19 – The only signage intended for pedestrians of cyclists near the bus station

19 – The primary purpose of this monolith is to sign the Bus Station itself, the map it carries is not easy to understand





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Central area, in and around Town Hall20 Burnley Road/Bridge Street/Market Place – new fingerpost/monolith – high priorityThis point is what would appear to be, and does feel like, the centre of the town. At this point, we are to the side of what used to be the Town Hall, we can see the Information centre, the market place and the bus station. It is pivotal. Currently there is a Victoriana fingerpost, in reasonable condition. This makes a good interpretive point also and for all of these reasons, I recommend a new fingerpost/monolith unit positioned where the current fingerpost is, which is a protected spot due to the planters and the pillar box nearby.

20 – View from fingerpost to Information Office

20 – View north towards markets and Bus Station

20 – View past Town Hall





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21 Information Centre, Burnley RoadThe Information Centre is a run by the Todmorden Information Centre Trust which is an independent organisation which has, I believe, support from both the Town Council and Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council and other organisations and individuals. It has pretty extensive opening hours, but it is not open in the evenings. I spoke with a helpful lady who was very willing to give me any guidance I needed and confirmed that the centre was well used for a wide variety of information needs of both visitors and locals. I asked if they had a free town map but unfortunately it was out of stock. Instead I bought for £1 a Todmorden Town Map and this not only gave me a map of the town centre but also a map of the surrounding area. It carries a street index which is very useful but does not carry any further information. What I also found in the Centre was the Todmorden Trail booklet. In truth, I cannot remember if it was free of charge or if there was a nominal fee. Regardless, this is a very useful publication that in relatively few pages, 24, provides a potted history of the town, its current context and via its narrative on the town’s more prominent buildings, it provides a good insight to the town and how it works and has worked. The material in this booklet could easily form the backbone of any interpretive information that we recommend be provided on street. The existence of the Todmorden Information Centre should be promoted on the monoliths recommended for inclusion in a new system. I feel it would be very useful to bring on board the Trust at an early stage to participate in the development of the new system. The Centre is itself positioned well but as the pavements beside it are rather tight, there is little scope to position a monolith. The one recommended opposite would however be in plain sight. There is not, however, a pedestrian crossing all that near to the Centre. One-point worth considering, there is wall space on the Centre itself and a wall mounted frame could be considered to carry a map, though it would be true to say that it would perhaps mar the look of the premises to a degree.

22 Burnley Road/Halifax Road – Map in Todmorden Town Council Notice Board – lower priorityIn front of what used to the Town Council building (was being used as a temporary gallery the weekend that I was there) there is a notice board in current use. With points of information not far away on either side, I feel there is little need to install a monolith here. What I would recommend is that space is found within the display case to present a map of the town centre, albeit a small one, simply to service any need for guidance there. Further to this, I feel that it would be worthwhile to have a fingerpost near to the corner of Burnley Road and Halifax Road. There is a fingerpost on the south side of Halifax Road, but it is barely visible from the north side. There is ample space here.

It Is not the remit of this piece of work to comment on matters beyond wayfinding and visitor engagement. Here, however, I think it is worth commenting on how unfriendly the lack of pedestrian crossings feels at or near this junction. Whether you wish to cross over Burnley Road or Halifax Road, there are times when it feels like you are taking your life in your hands to do so. It is particularly uninviting, and the pedestrian will feel neglected here. It may be for reasons of traffic flow and avoiding queueing traffic, but some sort of intervention is needed on both axes to assist the pedestrian, particularly those who could be infirm.

21 – View from Information Office, a fingerpost/monolith opposite would be clearly visible

22 – View across Halifax Road towards Water Street, the fingerpost is visible but not readable

22 – View east along Halifax Road

23 Junction of Halifax Road/Rochdale Road, south beside Water Street – new fingerpost/monolith – high priorityThis junction, and in particular this spot, is one that offers a very interesting streetscape. There is a place marker panel mounted on a post, public sculpture, planters and a bench. In addition, there is a fingerpost. It feels of importance to the town and from this vantage point, we can see the town hall and a number of streets converge here to provide the visitor with choices to make. For all of those reasons, I recommend that this point is given a fingerpost/monolith unit.

There is ample space to do pretty much whatever you wish but in order to be able to take advantage of both sides of the monolith and to make more sense of the fingerpost element of it, I recommend that it is positioned more centrally within the layout of the elements here about two or three metres north of the current position of the fingerpost. This will avoid those using the unit, disturbing those using the bench. This offers a good spot to provide interpretive/contextual information on Todmorden. The current fingerpost is looking a bit tired in any case, not helped by the fact that someone has seen fit to attach a cigarette butt box to it.

24 Water Street/Dale Street – no wayfinding assistance requiredThis is an interesting junction for the visitor, it is very attractive and feels cosy. As there will be wayfinding assistance nearby, plus considering how you would have had to reach this spot, on top of which the pavements are tight here, there is no need for any wayfinding assistance here and so therefore, none is recommended.

23 – This junction has a lot of charm and a sense of place

23 – Public sculpture and the planters work well together here

23 – This fingerpost would be removed and a fingerpost/ monolith positioned in a more open location on the site

24 – View towards Library, Rochdale Road from Water St24 – View down Dale St from Water St 24 – View to ‘Town Hall’ from Water St/Dale St junction24 – Junction of Water St/Dale St

23 – This junction provides access to Water Street, Dale Street and the surrounding areas, the monolith here would assist people to understand and explore the vicinity





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25 Complex of small streets and squares in and around west end of Halifax Road – remove current information panel at Bramsche Square and establish new fingerpost/monolith in more central position, remove some blue signs in locality – high priorityThis is an interesting part of the town centre, a complex of small streets and squares where you can cut through and double back etc. It is what visitors enjoy and it could be all too easy to litter the streets with fingerposts here or blue highway signs.

My core recommendations are primarily to provide a network of map and information points, these points will allow visitors to uncover the nooks and crannies of the town and, at any one time, the visitor will not find themselves all that far from an information point.

What is recommended here is that the traditional style panel found in Bramsche Square Car Park is removed. This is showing the locations of the blue plaques, marking places of historical interest. It is in poor condition and the job it does can be done elsewhere in the area. What should then happen is that a new fingerpost/monolith unit is established at the point shown in the bottom two images. This spot is pivotal to the area and it is also close to the public loos and accessible from the market place. There are also some blue highway style signs in the area, some pointing in the wrong direction, these should be removed once the new unit is in place.

25 – Halifax Rd/Bridge Street leading School Lane and the market area

25 – Bramsche All Day Car Park, very central and busy 25 – This panel should be removed when the new unit is installed nearby

25 – There are good public toilets located here25 – Access to exterior and interior markets from School Lane

25 – A fingerpost/monolith could be positioned here allowing high visibility and with a good vantage point





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Route: From School Lane Car Park to LIDL, on Halifax Road26 Halifax Road/near to School Lane Car Park – new fingerpost/monolith point- medium priorityAlthough this is not far from Bramsche Square, it would be a good spot to provide a map for those arriving from the east on Halifax Road and for those who may have parked here. There is ample space and it would also be accessible via the pedestrian crossing nearby.

27 Between Union Street South and Bond Street – remove blue sign – medium priorityThere is a blue highway style sign on Halifax Road between Union Street and Bond Street on the south side. It directs you to the Bus Station and the Rail Station. It is a little curious in its position as it should really be closer to the pedestrian crossing. With a new fingerpost/monolith point recommended at 25 above, this sign could be removed as the fingerpost element of the new unit will be visible at this point.

26 – There is ample space here to install a monolith 26 – Views to east along Halifax Road from School Lane Car Park





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28 Halifax Road/Stackwells Road/ Todmorden Health Centre/Hippodrome Theatre – New Fingerpost/Monolith medium priorityThe Todmorden Health Centre will have visitors coming from outside of the area. It is also directly opposite the Hippodrome Theatre. There is currently no wayfinding assistance on either side of the road. On the Hippodrome theatre side, there is very little space on the pavement. Partially to complete the system and also to mark the importance of these two buildings, I am recommending a fingerpost/monolith here to be located in the space shown in the bottom image. The fingerpost will be readable from across the road and anyone needing further assistance from the Hippodrome side will be able to cross relatively easily here as the sight lines are clear.

29 Halifax Road/Sanworth Street/LIDL supermarket – possibly fingerpost or sign on existing lamppost – lower priorityThis is a new site for the LIDL supermarket and it is likely that people park there in its large car parking facility, do their shopping but then enter the town centre for a short visit. I am not totally convinced that any wayfinding assistance is required as the natural navigation at this point, leads you towards the town centre, if that is what you are looking for. Perhaps, however, a simple fingerpost at the south west corner shown in the bottom images would encourage people to walk into the town centre. Alternatively, an easier option may be to simply put a finger sign pointing to the town centre on the lamppost shown in the image below, centre.

28 – View towards the town centre from Stacks Road The Hippodrome is opposite the Health Centre

28 – A monolith in front of the Health Centre at this position would be clearly visible from the Hippodrome

28 – View to Health Centre from Hippodrome side

29 – There is a lamppost that could be used to carry as simple finger sign

29 – The south west corner, the town centre side, could support a fingerpost

29 – LIDL car park has time limited parking free of charge

29 – The way to the town centre is reasonably clear from this point





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ROUTE: Todmorden College to Bus Station on Burnley Road30 Burnley Road/Todmorden College/Queen Street – new Fingerpost/Monolith – medium priorityThe Todmorden College is not far from the town centre, up Burnley Road. Due to the nature of it there will be people coming here that are new to Todmorden. There are also other services and facilities here, Council Offices, Citizens Advice Bureau and Children’s Centre are signposted, though these signs seem to be intended for drivers.

I recommend a fingerpost/monolith here, positioned in what is a good space seen in the bottom images. It has to be said that the natural navigation here takes you towards the town centre but the monolith here may well encourage those visiting the college/facilities here, to explore further on foot or bike.

There is strip of shops and the Police station a little further north on Burnley Road but I do not think the new wayfinding system need go further than the College. The natural navigation leads you to the town centre.

31 Burnley Road/Stansfield Road – nothing requiredHeading back towards the town centre, we come to Stansfield Road. This leads to the Dalton Street Car Park and the Fire Station while skirting round the north side of the bus station. I think that cars arriving here will have passed a junction that tells them where the town centre is and the natural navigation is strong enough not to require any assistance.

30 – ii View to town centre from front of College

30 – This image above and the image right, show there is ample space for a monolith

31 – The view up Stansfield Road would not be mistaken for the way to the town centre

31 – At this junction, the Bus Station is clear, as are the arches and sight of the town centre beyond





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Understanding TodmordenFor a town which has several strands to its history, one of which it can be proud, there is little to be found that would help you gain knowledge of this, when there. Of course, those who are interested can go the local library, tap into Google and Wikipedia etc. What I found excellent was the Information Centre and this is a diamond that the visitor would be delighted to engage with and through this find out more about the town. We are not only talking here of the classic tourist visitor of course, we are also talking of the more frequent local visitor who could still be stimulated to do more when there. There is a variety of architectural styles and buildings/areas of design interest. Its pre-industrial and industrial history is of real interest and there are a number of characters that have shaped the town over many centuries. A visitor to an area is often curious to know what makes a town the place it is, and to be given a bit of insight, something they can talk of to others about their visit. What I am recommending is that the wayfinding and information system delivers this on street, making the most of what the town has to offer and allowing those engaging with it to understand what makes it tick.

Has Todmorden anything to offer?If we consider the local people, those who live and work within its confines, it would be fair to say that it is likely they know where the things are that they want to use. They are unlikely to be dependent on a wayfinding system as such to go about their lives in the city. When children come of an age when they can be let loose by themselves in the town centre, they may need this guidance but soon they will not. So, for who are we needing to develop a better system? Who are the targets? It would be fair to say that the targets are those who have a choice to make. That choice may be where do we go to do some shopping, where can we go to have a meal and a drink, where can we go to have a day out with the kids. Where can we go to take in the theatre or the cinema and perhaps ultimately for Todmorden, where can we stay to pass a weekend or use as a centre for further exploration.

It often takes someone from outside of a town to be able to see some of its advantages, here is my perspective of some of Todmorden’s assets.

Easily walkable and a mixture of environmentsTodmorden is a small town and it has the significant advantage of being compact, a key part of the new system will be to make sure that users understand this, encouraging them to explore further and to walk or cycle to a location. It offers quite a number of very pleasant areas, beside the canal and the river, it has a distinctly rural feel while providing the opportunity to enjoy the feature of the town.

Shopping, Markets, Nooks and CranniesIt is not part of our work to undertake an assessment of the retail offering in Todmorden by comparison to the towns around it. Despite this, however, we find ourselves considering what the town has to offer and where it is located. By far the largest single entity is the indoor market and the outdoor market stalls. They are an ongoing feature of the town and give good reason to go there. They are not extraordinary in themselves, but they do provide interest.

In and around Halifax Road, the start of Rochdale Road and similarly Burnley Road there are small independent shops, locally owned and run, that will always enhance the attraction of the area. On top, perhaps more important to many people, there is also a variety of eating and drinking opportunities, covering a variety of culinary tastes and budgets. As a place to spend a morning or afternoon and perhaps the whole day, Todmorden has sufficient to capture its fair share of interest. The aim for towns such as Todmorden is not to be number one on anyone’s list, they are unlikely to achieve that, the real aim is to be one of the places that people will consider worthy of a visit on a regular basis or as part of a broader visit to the area.

Architecture, feel of the streetscape and the town’s people.Always a question of personal taste, but I found that there is a sufficient mixture of buildings of architectural interest and sufficient areas to stumble across to make it of interest. Todmorden has a very pleasant rural feel to it and it feels laid back and relaxed. It came across as friendly place, I was only there over two days, but there was only kindness showed towards me when I engaged with anyone for whatever reason, I felt welcome.

The Initiatives and TrailsI felt guilty of my ignorance of the Incredible Edible Todmorden. I find this absolutely fascinating and spoke to several people about it, including the very helpful lady in the Information Centre. Essentially it was, I believe, the idea of one or perhaps two ladies who created the idea of growing food in public places that could be benefitted from by anyone who needed it. It is now a community business that has a range of activities throughout the year and word of it has spread far and wide with many other towns across the world adopting the idea. It is a truly wonderful story and I think it must be taken account of in any on-street system as it is part of the essence of the town. The Incredible initiative has created a trail to follow and there are displays throughout the town. These really add character to the town, but still more surprising, is the use of the slogan Kindness, presented in Hollywood style lettering in certain key spots. This is certainly what I felt when there and I am sure it is something that has and will enhance any visit to the town. Exactly how it can be part of the new system will need careful thought, but encompassing this spirit into its content design would certainly be a positive step to further strengthening the sense of place that this initiative delivers.

There is an Incredible Edible Todmorden trail booklet that can be picked up at the Information Centre.

As previously mentioned, there is also a The Todmorden Trail booklet, a self-guided tour and another on Walks around Todmorden. The town offers opportunities to walkers of all levels the opportunity to find something of interest to them and it can certainly score well on this front.

Other Leisure OpportunitiesThe Hippodrome was mentioned earlier. It offers a variety of entertainments opportunities throughout the year and seems well thought of. It is something that should certainly be brought to the attention of the visitor.

EventsAlready mentioned are events as part of the Incredible Todmorden Way initiative. As well as those the town offers four main events each year as follows:

Carnival; last bank holiday in May

Agricultural Show – 3rd Saturday in June

Country Fair – 1st Saturday in July

Lamplighter – a Saturday towards the end of November.

While I am sure these are well known locally, it would be advantageous to promote these on the on-street system, giving reference to a website to allow the actual dates to be accessed easily. Getting a town known to have events, helps people to keep it in mind for a second visit and those who have already enjoyed the town are the most likely to take up the opportunity an event provides to return and have a new experience.

Quarters/DistrictsThe technique of drawing a town into districts can prove useful, depending on its size. In the case of Todmorden, I believe that this is not necessary and in fact, it would be better not to in order that the compact nature of it can be emphasised.

RecommendationsThe viewpoint we have of any location is always going to be personal, given from our own perspective. When looking at a town or city, with my third-party perspective hat on, I ask myself, why would I want to come here and is there enough to make it worthwhile for a visitor to do so? There is no such thing as ‘the visitor’ nor a standard set of criteria applied by visitors to a town. That said, what we can look at is the question of what ingredients are there that would be of interest to meet a range of visitor requirements. No destination can be all things to all people and therefore it needs to be realistic, targeting those who are more likely to come and, above all, make the most of whatever assets it has.

Having considered various factors earlier, it is clear to me that Todmorden does have what it takes to be able to provide a level of experience that many visitors will find satisfying. It has many of the ingredients necessary to do so and, in my opinion, is probably underplaying its hand. This provides opportunity.

Embracing the visitorI think that the current system can be improved upon as detailed in the location by location commentary above. However, I think at the moment, Todmorden does have a wayfinding system and other information on street, such as the Incredible Todmorden Way initiative materials, that does already embrace the visitor and make an impression on them. The way forward is to create a system that enhances this and still further engages with the visitor, helps them to understand more, explore more and to do so on foot and also by cycling.

Start from Scratch?Outlined above and then detailed later below, we have reviewed the existing system. The core system is the current fingerpost network which is looking tired and in terms of network coverage, there are gaps. When considering wayfinding improvements, we take as a starting point that we try to retain the use of any existing elements that can play the role required, in the effective system. In this case, however, to achieve a fully integrated system, with complementary elements of a consistent design, it would be preferable to start from scratch and to replace/remove the current fingerpost system. This would be done at the point when the new system was ready to install. Some of the elements, such as the welcome board near to the rail station, could re-purposed but overall, it would be better to replace most elements and create a new, fit for purpose, network.

Integrated SystemThe aim is to create an integrated system that does at least the following for the visitor to Todmorden town centre.

1. Makes them feel welcome2. Shows them where they are standing in relation to the town3. Tells them what there is to see and do, promotes the variety 4. Allows them to locate where these places/things are located5. Allows them to know/work out the distance to these places/things6. Enables them to have knowledge of key navigational ‘anchor’ points7. Helps them to understand the different areas of the town centre8. Assists them to feel ‘at ease’ with the town centre

In addition, in the case of Todmorden, there would also be merit in adding the following features:

9. Interpretive Material With so little available to engage with the visitor, it would be of advantage to take the opportunity to enable the wayfinding system to give a better understanding of the town. Interpretive material of this kind is often appreciated just as much by the local people, who often do not know as much of the history as we may think they would; a higher awareness of local history will often help to generate a greater feeling of civic pride. This does not need to be overdone but the sort of topics you might hope to see would be:

• Information on what an area is now and what it may have been before• History of any notable buildings to be seen at, or near, the point at which

you are standing• Historical events/notable persons in the town’s history

10. Events Arguably the greatest potential audience for forthcoming events are those who have already come to Todmorden, for whatever reason.

Printed Town MapDespite the growing prevalence of digital information, there is still benefit to be gained from having a printed map, made widely available. The map that would form the foundation of the wayfinding system should be made available on a broader basis across the town, not just from one or two pubic offices. I would expect it to be made available from transport points such as the rail station plus other public access offices. It should also be made available to accommodation providers, especially hotels.

The method of printing them as flat sheet pads seems appropriate for the needs of any town as it is economic and convenient. As well as the map itself it should carry a range of information on what there is to see and do in the town and provide a categorised listing and street index. There is the potential to subsidise the production of this map through the sale of advertising. I would recommend that the map is republished on an annual basis allowing it to be up-to-date and provide the opportunity to present a calendar of events taking part in any one year. I know there is already a printed map, it was out of print. This requirement may well then already be covered, but I think it important that the map works hand in hand with whatever is developed for on-street use, this aids the visitor.

At this stage I have not allowed for separate costs as there is already a budget for a map and I would not envisage that the costs would be any different to that already being incurred. The design of it would lean heavily on what would be created for on-street use and so it would simply be a question of finished artwork and printing cost.

Hardware ElementsIn the areas where the network of wayfinding elements will be, there is a wide variety of architectural styles. Even within what might be considered the more historical areas, we will also be able to find office and shop facades that use more contemporary materials. The current fingerpost and display style are predominantly Victoriana. The colour selected is green. It could be the case that the Victoriana style is continued but it does somehow clash when there are more contemporary buildings nearby. The Notice Board used at what used to be the Town Hall is of simple neutral style and I think this may be the way to go for any new system. I do however feel that the colour scheme should be retained. The latest systems use aluminium components for all hardware elements, except for the toughened glass, and this is usually powder coated to whatever colour is required. These materials provide units that are easy to maintain and, properly maintained, can provide a life of around 15 years and even up to 25. This allows the initial investment to deliver its benefits over a long period.

To create an effective network, one that provides a high level of engagement with the visitor, we need to deploy a network of points that use directional signage, mapping and information. This does not mean that at all points we need have all three in equal measures. The current system predominantly uses fingerpost directional signage. I think that this should change to a system that is predominantly monolith based to provide the level of visitor engagement sought. To cover all these requirements, it will need to be a network consisting of a mixture of fingerposts and monoliths and, as has worked will in the project we completed for Nottingham, a unit that combines a fingerpost with a monolith information point (see image, left).

NetworkIn deciding where wayfinding elements are needed, we consider the Relay Principle.

A system that relies more on maps than it does directional signs can take advantage of what we at Streetwise refer to as the relay principle. Essentially this means that generally we are capable of easily understanding and retaining around three direction instructions without problem. So, for example, between where we are now and our destination, we can see that we are to go straight on, take the second on the right and the third on the left to find our street. We would also have had the benefit of being able to see the names of the streets we will encounter along the way and this reinforces our understanding and confidence as we go to our destination. On a good system, we will also see the other points of assistance available as they will be marked and, if the place we wish go is far away, then the most natural thing to do is look at how to get to the next point of assistance along the way. That is where the relay factor comes into play. The points of assistance act like stepping stones and even if we are crossing the entire town to get to our chosen destination, we can do so with the confidence of knowing there is further help along the way.

The fingerpost/monolith combination successfully deployed in Nottingham

Create a network of monoliths that serve visitors and encourages them to exploreTo achieve the objectives discussed earlier, the content recommended for the monoliths is as follows:

Area Wide Map: This would be the full town centre and appear always with a clear ‘you are here indicator’. This map would form the bedrock of the system and appear on all other materials in a consistent form.

Local Area Map: Even although Todmorden itself is not large there would be benefit in many locations to have a local area map also that would allow greater detail.

Categorised Listing: Both above maps would be supported by categorised listings covering different places of interest, historic buildings, public access buildings, car parks, retail areas, places of recreation such as parks, leisure centres etc.

Cross promotion of areas A technique we have used successfully elsewhere is to give the flavour of what lies waiting in the different areas of the town, this helps the visitor to understand the variety of environments on offer to them across the town. This can help encourage visitors to be encouraged to come off the well beaten paths.

Walking Distances/times: This is a very important component to include as Todmorden is easy to cross on foot in terms of the distances involved and it does encourage people to explore more and go further. This is also where the use of anchor points helps as showing the walking times to these, from each monolith, can reinforce the impression of the compact nature of the town centre and all that it has to offer.

Local area information: This can cover a wide range of subjects, not only the history of the town and its buildings but also what is going on now, in this case, particularly the various local initiatives that help to characterise it and shows its personality.

Events: As previously stated, the monoliths should publicise the annual events of the town and direct visitors to digital sources of current information.

Cycling and CyclistsWhen taking on this project I have stated that we could not take on board wayfinding of cyclists as it is not particularly compatible with signing for pedestrians. What I have seen in the town, was the cycle hire scheme. This in itself should be promoted on the monoliths and the location of them. I have already commented that the blue highway signs intended or cyclists should be retained, they may even need enhanced but that is a matter for a different piece of work. In addition, I think it would be pertinent to present recommended cycling route information on the monoliths, including cycle parking stances. This could be considered for the core maps or be delivered on a separate map on the units.

Calderdale Context and the overall designWe also been commissioned to review Sowerby Bridge. Just as the context of the Rochdale Canal and the River Calder and the Calderdale valley are referred to on other elements currently out there, I believe that the on-street wayfinding system should take the opportunity to present Todmorden in that context and that, as part of the overall system that could be developed across all of Calderdale, the cross-selling of Calderdale and encouraging visitors to see the leisure and perhaps even business opportunities that Calderdale offers should be a part of the information delivered on the monoliths.

The Calderdale context could, and I think should, lead to there being complementary aspects to the design and indeed content of the wayfinding and engagement systems to be found across the whole of CMBC. This can easily be achieved while allowing the elements used to present the individual characteristics and personalities of the separate towns. What can be created is a family of elements that allow a core number of information elements to be presented, and relied upon, while allowing colour and graphic design to allow the individuality of the place to shine through.

The map below sets out the different wayfinding elements recommended for the final network. The numbers cross reference back to the detailed commentary for each location, not the individual element. On occasions there is more than one wayfinding element referred to in the text, hence why the same number is repeated.

NReview of the Todmorden Town Centre Wayfinding System

New Monolith/FingerpostNew Monolith onlyNew Fingerpost




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Todmorden Recommendations Summary Draft 19 12 2018New Mlith/FP Sign on existing Free standing

No Action Remove FP New for Old FP New FP point replacing old FP New Mlith/FP New Mlith only posts /rails Map Frames1 Bus stop opposite Morrisons Supermarket on way to Salford Way 02 Salford Way/Rochdale Road 03 Longfield Road/Rochdale Road 14 Fielden Square/Golden Lion/Rochdale Road 15 South west of bridge over Rochdale Canal on Rochdale Rd - Lk No19 16 North west of bridge over Rochdale Canal on Rochdale Rd - Lk No19 1 17 Along towpath of Rochdale Canal towards lock 18/Oxford St CP 28 Dale Street Car Park 09 Lever Street Car Park – Rochdale Canal (Union Street South CP nr) 1 110 Hall Street/Rochdale Road, Public Library 111 Water Street/Rochdale Road 112 Rise Lane/Rochdale Road, leading to Rail Station 113 Outside of the rail station on Station Approach/Rise Lane 1 114 Station Approach to Burnley Road but not including that junction 1 115 Station Approach/Burnley Road 1 1 116 Back Ridge 017 Path down from railway bridge to opposite Bus Station 1 118 Burnley Road opposite the Markets 1 119 Burnley Road/Bus Station 120 Burnley Road/Bridge Street/Market Place 121 Information Centre 022 Burnley Road/Halifax Road 123 Junct of Halifax Road/Rochdale Road, Sth,Water St 124 Water Street/Dale Street 025 Small streets/sqrs around west end Halifax Rd 1 126 Halifax Road/near to School Lane Car Park 127 Between Union Street South and Bond Street 128 Halifax Rd/Stackwells Rd/ Tod. Health Ctre/Hippodrome 129 Halifax Road/Sanworth Street/LIDL supermarket 130 Burnley Road/Todmorden College/Queen Street 131 Burnley Road/Stansfield Road 0 1

Totals 0 7 2 6 6 3 3 4 4

FP = Fingerpost, Mlith = Monolith New Mlith/FP Sign on existing Free standingRemove FP New for Old FP New FP point replacing old FP New Mlith/FP New Mlith only posts /rails Map Frames

Summary table of recommendations by location

TODMORDEN WAYFINDING DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT PROJECT BUDGET 19 12 18

Task Quantity Unit price Total

FingerpostsSupply of 6 fingerposts - with 6 blades each 6 1350 8100Artwork costs for individual fingerposts (with 6 blades each) 6 70 420Installation of fingerposts 6 500 3000

Monoliths (without fingerpost)Supply of 3 monoliths (no lighting panels) 3 3500 10500Design of look and feel of monolith content 1 2200 2200Finished artwork for 7 individual monoliths 3 600 1800Installation of monoliths 3 1750 5250

Combined monolith/fingerpostSupply of 6 combined monolith/fingerpost units - 6 5000 30000based on no lighting panels and 6 blades per fingerpost)Design/artwork for combined monolith/fingerpost 6 670 4020Installation of combined monolith/fingerpost 6 1750 10500

Signs on existing posts/railings plus car park framesSigns to be added to existing railings - cost of hardware 4 150 600Artwork for above signs 4 70 280Installation of above signs 4 100 400

Supply of free standing map frames 4 420 1680Artwork for above signs 4 450 1800Installation of signs 4 600 2400

Removal and make good of ground for obsolete fingerposts/displays 7 650 4550

Preparation of area wide map from client supplied source map 1 2750 2750

Delivery charges for signage 1 2000 2000

SUB TOTAL 92250

Project Management (inc. meetings/travel) 1 9225(based on 10% of above costs)

OVERALL TOTAL 101475

N.B. - fingerpost blades are £91 each so from this, varying costs for number of blades per post can be calculatedAll budgeted costs exclude VAT

Draft Project Implementation Budget

review of the todmorden town centre - calderdale...todmorden’s stories to its visitors and indeed...

Documents