Work to replace the current temporary layout of Devonshire Square with a permanent design will start in early January and be completed in March, ready for formal inauguration in April.
What the definitive version of Devonshire Square will look like, with new gardens and a centre path incorporating brick mosaic designs based on schoolchildrens' ideas
(click on the picture to enlarge)
Information about the redesign of Devonshire Square, Palmers Green, has been published by Enfield Council's Journeys & Places team. Prior to the start of installation of the new, permanent, features, the play equipment that has been in the square on an interim basis since 2022 will be removed and reinstalled at Hazelwood School.
Why Devonshire Square?
The intention is to create a square which will
- Be a collective space and foster a stronger sense of community
- Be welcoming, accessible and have a clear identity
- Introduce more greening and planting
- Accommodate a range of events and activities led by the local community
Source: Let's Talk Enfield website
The design has been developed in conjunction with key stakeholders and community groups at a series of events and activities during community markets in the square, at Arbeit Studios and at a co-design workshop held with Laurel Park School.
Key design elements
- flexible, open and accessible space, connected to the high street, with clear signage that makes it easy to find
- Transforming 50 m2 of hard surface into new greening areas, using sustainable drainage systems and supporting local biodiversity
- Providing informal seating providing spaces to rest or connect with others
- Including mosaic artworks depicting key moments in Palmers Green’s history, co-designed with students from Laurel Park School
- Providing power supply to support a diversity of community-led events and activities to be delivered on the Square
- Accommodating a shared surface area with clear signage encouraging cyclists to reduce their speed and respect pedestrians
- Reusing/repurposing existing pavement and materials as much as possible.
Source: Let's Talk Enfield website
The final appearance of the square (see picture above) will be very similar to the concept design that was consulted on in May. The centre pathway of paving squares running from Green Lanes to Devonshire Road will incorporate brick mosaic designs based on ideas suggested by children at Laurel Park School.
How a drawing by a Laurel Park School pupil will be used as the design for a brick mosaic
The new-look square will be formally launched in April 2025 at the same time as the launch of a new "place plan" for Palmers Green. Beginning in May, it will host an ongoing programme of community events and activities. Year 2 pupils at Hazelwood School will help maintain the green areas.
The cover of the council's recently updated communication and engagement plan for Devonshire Square is illustrated by a photograph reminding us of a memorable event held in the square during 2023: Strutting the Square