Improvement works to Market Square in Stevenage are set to continue next week, to make "travelling through this area a safer, more pleasant experience".
Stevenage Borough Council says the plan is to make this area more attractive, safer for pedestrians, and offer greater visibility to the entrances of the indoor market and St George’s Car Park.
The council is installing a new and improved footpath with a raised pedestrian crossing, improved lighting, and the introduction of greenery.
"This will improve and brighten the area, creating a safer and visually improved crossing, whilst still providing designated loading bays for businesses who require deliveries and collections," a council spokesperson explained.
"Pedestrian safety is a priority and these works will create easy pedestrian movement and aid those with mobility issues. Two loading bays will be relocated, and there will be no loss of blue badge parking."
Earlier this year, two large scale urban artworks were installed in Market Square, as part of the programme of public realm improvements to the area.
Councillor Richard Henry, leader of Stevenage Borough Council, said: "Market Place sees a high level of footfall and is a key space to serve businesses within the town.
"Although changes have already started, with the introduction of two fantastic pieces of artworks, there is more to do in terms of accessibility and providing a warm, welcoming feel to those visiting Stevenage.
"The works beginning later this month will upgrade the space for pedestrians, introduce colour and greenery, and deliver improvements for those who are less mobile.
"We apologise for any disruption caused but, when the works are finished, travelling through this area will be a safer, more pleasant experience."
The next stage of works are set to begin on Monday (September 9) and will take place in phases to minimise disruption:
- September 9 to October 6 - The entrance to the indoor market on the southern side will be closed. Visitors should use the northern entrance accessible from Park Place. The road will remain open and those using St George’s Way Car Park will be directed to alternative pedestrian access points. Signage will be in place.
- October 7 to 27 October - The northern entrances to the indoor market will be closed, and the road will remain open. People visiting the indoor market will need to use the southern entrances off Market Place. Those using St George’s Way Car Park will be directed to alternative pedestrian access points. Signage will be in place.
- October 28 to November 10 - The pedestrian footpath outside Mulberry House (Park Place) will remain open, but will have a reduced width. However, the footpath and the road will remain fully open.
- November 11 to 24 - There will be reduced pedestrian access to Market Square from Market Place. Entrances to the indoor market will remain unaffected.
The project is being funded by the Stevenage Development Board through the national government’s Towns Fund, of which Stevenage received £37.5 million in March 2021.
Adrian Hawkins OBE, the board's chair, said: "Market Square has always been a key area in the town in terms of its relevance to our community and the impact which it has on local business. For that reason, it is vital that we make it both safer and also more attractive for pedestrians.
"When this work is completed after a carefully phased schedule, we will have an area which the whole town can truly be proud of and which will fit in with the vibrant approach we are seeing across the entire regeneration programme delivered by the Stevenage Development Board and Stevenage Borough Council, which is now gathering pace."
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