Case Study Locations
Lancaster
Lancaster is the county town of Lancashire, in North West England. Lancaster (Loyn Caster) began when the Romans built a fort in the area about 80 AD. It is situated on the River Lune and has a population of 45,952. Lancaster is a constituent settlement of the wider City of Lancaster, local government district which has a population of 133,914 and encompasses several outlying towns, including neighbouring Morecambe.With its history based on its port and canal, Lancaster is an ancient settlement, dominated by Lancaster Castle. Lancaster Central Library is vYv first trial site. The library, which has been closed for refurbishment since April 2009 is due to reopen in November 2009 [more]
Derry/Londonderry
The City of Derry or Londonderry is the second largest city in Northern Ireland, after Belfast. Derry derives its name from the Irish Doire Calgach - meaning the Oak Grove of Calgach. Calgach was a pagan warrior who had his camp on the "island" of Derry. The town grew until the 10th century when it became known as Doire Colmcille in honour of St Columb who is still said to have founded the town in 546. In 1609 The City Guilds of London 'planted' the city and built defensive walls around it. The old walled city lies on the west bank of the River Foyle, whereas the present city now covers both banks (Cityside to the west and Waterside to the east) and the river is spanned by two bridges. Cobbled streets of history pave the journey from St Columba, the Plantation, the Siege Era, Emigration, World War I & II through to the Peace Process after the Troubles.
Coventry
With a population of over 300,000 people, Coventry is one of the largest cities in the UK. Coventry is an ancient city, which predates many of the large cities around it including Birmingham and Leicester. It is likely that Coventry grew from a Bronze Age settlement near the town centre where, at that time, a large flowing river and lake created the ideal settlement area, with mild weather and thick woods: food, water and shelter would have be easily provided. [more]
