Austen Lynch of Garstang, Lancashire, has written to highlight the transformation of Winckley Square in Preston as an example of how public spaces can be made more inviting. The square, made up largely of Georgian townhouses surrounding an undulating park, was reworked in the mid-20th century with paths laid along “desire lines”. By the 21st century, however, repeated flooding beneath a dense tree canopy had made it noticeably less welcoming.
Following the felling of trees affected by ash dieback disease, along with landscaping and rebuilt culverts, the area has undergone a marked improvement. The gardens, cared for by the Friends of Winckley Square, now host a programme of social and heritage events. This local effort chimes with recent calls from figures such as Carlo Ratti and Thomas Heatherwick to bring joy and a human touch back into the built environment.
Lynch notes that associations with notable figures connected to the square are now being explored, including the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, the suffragette Edith Rigby, graphic novelist Bryan Talbot, and Beano artist Leo Baxendale. The intention is to establish links that will encourage contemporary writers and deepen public engagement with the area’s heritage.
The letter responds to a recent article by Carlo Ratti, who used AI analysis of three cities to argue that people now walk more quickly and socialise less in public spaces. Lynch suggests that the careful, community-led renewal of Winckley Square demonstrates how such spaces can be reclaimed and made more welcoming for all.
