A MAJOR funding bid for up to £18million has been submitted to Government to redevelop two key streets in Stratford town centre.
The plans to alter Bridge Street and High Street – designed by placemaking consultant PJA – aim to create a better balance of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.
The consultant has been working with the Stratford Town Centre Strategic Partnership (TCSP) which includes Stratford Town Council and Warwickshire County Council (WCC).
Now, a multi-million pound bid to pay for the works – which includes money set aside for contingencies – has been submitted to the government as part of its Levelling Up Fund.
Although the bid has been submitted, the authorities say the plans are not set in stone. For the purpose of the funding bid the scheme proposals have been based around the ideas developed for the Stratford Neighbourhood Plan.
So far they include narrowing the road on the two streets, widening footpaths, and landscaping to create a more sensitive setting for the historic town centre.
The Neighbourhood Plan proposal also included closing High Street to through traffic between 11am and 4pm as well as the introduction of a 20mph speed limit which will also form part of the proposals in the funding bid.
It also includes a central walkway along Bridge Street where two-way traffic is maintained at all times.
Stratford Town Clerk Sarah Summers assured, although a bid had been sent, the public would have the opportunity to share their views in the near future.
She added it was an ‘important first step’ in improving the town centre for residents, visitors and business owners.
WCC spokesman for transport and planning, Wallace Redford said: “This funding bid provides an exciting opportunity to transform the historic heart of Stratford and deliver a hugely improved experience and vibrancy within the town for residents and visitors to enjoy.
“The proposals would reduce the current dominance of motor vehicles and give greater priority and space to pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging active travel and improving air quality. It would also enhance the town’s character and ambiance.
“There is further work to do to refine the scheme proposals and I look forward to continuing to work on the project with our partners and to working with those who use and rely on the town centre so that we can deliver a high-quality scheme which meets the needs of residents, businesses and visitors, and befits the town’s global status.”
The results of the bid are expected in autumn.
