Agenda item

Report of the Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment

Recommendations:-

1.    That approval be given to Phase 1 of the public realm improvement scheme.

2.    That approval be given to the allocation of funding from the Town Centre Investment Fund (TCIF), to progress to final design and implementation.

Consideration was given to a report which sought agreement for the design proposals and to the release of funding in the approved capital programme to implement phase 1 of the public realm improvements contained in the Town Centre Masterplan.

It was reported that proposed locations for improvement as part of the public realm scheme in Phase 1 were College Street, Bridgegate, Howard Street (Frederick Street to Market Square), Effingham Street (All Saint’s Square to Market Square). The works proposed as part of the scheme included:-

·         Additional parking spaces along College Street to help improve access and introduce additional short term parking closer to the heart of the Town Centre

·         Replacement and upgrade of old and tired surface materials;

·         Introduction of new ‘pop up’ features to add additional interest and vibrancy;

·         Review of the number of trees with the possibility to remove and replace trees elsewhere to improve surveillance by CCTV and improve the function and aesthetics of the spaces;

·         Removal of planter beds and seating on Bridgegate, to address issues relating to Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) and Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) and provide a more open view of the Minster;

·         Improvements and upgrade to lighting to help improve safety and CCTV functionality;

·         Improved layout of market stalls along Effingham Street to provide additional space for traders and space to expand the offer to other street markets including continental food markets;

·         Infrastructure works to provide new power supplies for market stalls and events;

·         Feature lighting to add interest to the streetscene;

·         Upgrading of street furniture.

Resolved:-

1.    That approval be given to Phase 1 of the public realm improvement scheme.

2.    That approval be given to the allocation of funding from the Town Centre Investment Fund (TCIF), to progress to final design and implementation.