The current programme of improvements across Weston
super-Mare continues with a major scheme in the Grove Village area
which started in February.
The scheme is the second phase of works to enhance and
revitalise this distinct area through an improvement in traffic
management and street design. It is the fourth major project to
begin in the town under the Civic Pride initiative
The work will consist of widening the footways using high quality
natural stone, continuing the improvement to pedestrian links from
the High Street right through to Grove Park and enhancing the
entrance to Grove Park. High quality paving, including
natural stone, improved lighting and street furniture will be
used. Road junctions will be reduced to improve access for
pedestrians. Roads will still cater for all existing access
and delivery requirements.
The Playhouse Theatre will also see improvements with bespoke
lighting and improvements planned for additional signs.
Parking will also be improved by providing clear and structured
general parking arrangements and dedicated disabled parking
bays.
The work will take approximately 16 weeks to complete and will
cost approximately £500,000. This has been funded jointly by
North Somerset Council, New Opportunities Fund and the South
West of England Regional Development Agency .
Cllr John Crockford-Hawley, North Somerset Council's executive
member for strategic planning and transport, said: "The first phase
of street improvements in front of the London Inn has met with
universal approval and this second phase will complete the
work. It will add to the quality of the town centre
experience, with benefits to residents, shoppers, visitors, theatre
audiences, businesses, students and the elderly. The whole
process is helping to encourage more people into the northern
section of the High Street and Grove Park."
Local businesses and traders have been closely consulted over
the work. A wider consultation exercise was carried out
in 2005.
The work is being carried out by contractors Alun Griffiths who
have extensive experience of town centre improvement work.
Whilst the work is progressing and to help ensure the safety of
site staff and the public, some temporary traffic restrictions will
be required. This includes banned turning manoeuvres, road closures
and removal of existing parking. All restrictions will be fully
signed and advance notification will be given to local traders and
the public.
The work is part of an £11 million programme to improve and
raise the quality of public spaces in the town. North Somerset
Council is working with an number of key partners on the Civic
Pride initiative including the South West of England Regional
Development Agency, who have funded the whole project to the tune
of £5 million.
The ongoing improvements to the town centre which so far include
Big Lamp Corner, Grove Village Phase I and Meadow Street have come
from North Somerset Council successfully bidding for and winning
funding from the Civic Pride initiative.
