Architect, Random Greenway, has lived in Caterham since he was four, so when the Caterham Community Partnership started work on its 'Shabby2Smart' project to improve the town, Random had the opportunity to help make a difference to the appearance of the town centre. 

“You cannot be in my business without thinking about what you would do with the town if you had the opportunity,” said Random.  “I looked into other urban design projects and was very aware of something called 'shared space' which was started in Holland thirty years ago.  Traffic lights and guard rails were taken away from junctions and the road layout changed so that pedestrians share the roads with the traffic.  Accidents went down, traffic flow improved and economic vitality increased in the towns where the scheme was introduced.  It was a phenomenal success.”

Elements of the 'shared space' concept has been used in the less radical, pedestrian friendly scheme that will be introduced in Caterham.   Surrey Highways produced the drawings for the project with Random helping to steer the council in the best way to do things and advise the Shabby 2 Smart group. 

“I have seen regeneration schemes over the years where planters are changed, seats are renewed and other cosmetic improvements are made,” said Random.  “The effect fades after a few years, and you're back to having a shabby town.  The pilot scheme that is happening in Caterham this summer will change the whole balance of the town centre.  At present, Caterham Valley is more of a big road system than a town, but these improvements will help to give the town centre a sense of 'place' in its own right, rather than being just a busy junction.” 

The pilot scheme is the first of its kind in Surrey and, if as hoped it is successful, will be rolled out across the rest of Surrey after two years.  The plans will be on display in Caterham Hill library, Caterham Valley library, and the ARC in the Village, Caterham-on-the-Hill from Saturday 13th February.  The work is expected to be completed by the end of this year's school summer holiday.