Castleford project much more than just a TV show

CABE assisted Channel 4 with Kevin McCloud and the Big Town Plan, a unique programme about the transformation of Castleford in West Yorkshire.

Kevin McCloud and the Big Town Plan, a Channel 4 show about the remarkable transformation of Castleford, reports on the first media-led makeover to spearhead the regeneration of a town.

Castleford in West Yorkshire, with a population of 38,000, has been devastated over recent years by the closure of local collieries.

Channel 4 approached CABE in 2003 about its plans to stage a 'regeneration game' in Castleford. We assisted the broadcaster and the producer, Talkback UK, in taking a considered and comprehensive approach to transformation.

CABE has helped the project by offering practical advice, funding the activities of a local centre promoting architecture and by reviewing key designs - including two reviews of an extraordinary new footbridge.

Local people helped to set the agenda for the project and make decisions on actual designs. CABE helped to organise public meetings, design workshops, fun days, and 'regeneration club nights' involving young people. We sponsored the Sagar Street regeneration centre, which became the focus of so much local activity. There was a clear steer from local people for a more vibrant town centre, for recognition of the town's industrial heritage and for reuse of derelict land. They also wanted the local rivers Calder and Aire to be put to greater use.

The 130-metre footbridge, designed by McDowell + Benedetti following a design competition, has been shortlisted for the 2008 Prime Minister's Better Public Building Award, as has the nearby Weir Fish Pass.

As well as the new bridge, Castleford is benefiting from the redevelopment of its main town square and new facilities for local children.

The project has provided a huge boost to economic investment in the town. Channel 4 estimates that it has helped lever in an extra £200 million.

Kevin McCloud's Big Town Plan started on Channel 4 on Monday 11 August and continues for four episodes.