Warwickshire News Mine

On Thursday, Stratford on Avon Area Committee will consider for full public consultation a new ‘walkable core’ strategy for the town which proposes changes aimed at creating a pedestrian-friendly environment where the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and public transport is put above the needs of motorists, whilst recognising that vehicles still have a need to access and circulate around the Town Centre.

The proposals include the ‘historic spine’ route from Shakespeare’s birthplace in Henley Street, High Street, Chapel Street, Church Street to his final resting place: the Holy Trinity Church in Old Town. Other streets included are Bridge Street, Sheep Street and Chapel Lane.

Achieving a ‘Walkable Core’ for Stratford-upon-Avon is a key goal arising from the Urban Design Framework, adopted by Stratford on Avon District Council as Supplementary Planning Guidance in July 2007, and endorsed by the Cabinet of Warwickshire County Council in September 2007. In October 2008, consultants were commissioned on behalf of the World Class Stratford initiative, to carry out a series of stakeholder meetings to develop proposals for the ‘Walkable Core’, both in terms of traffic management and urban realm enhancements.

And on Thursday members of the area committee will get a glimpse of proposals, aimed at giving them an idea of how the ‘walkable core’ could look.

Proposals include widened footpaths, shared space, and landscaping designed to enhance the local experience.

Shirley Reynolds, the Team Leader with the County Council’s Highways and Transportation Studies Team, said: “What the Area Committee report aims to do is to give councillors an idea of how things could look, but nothing is set in stone yet, please excuse the pun, as all the designs are up for discussion.

“We have been working closely with organisations like the Stratford Society, Stratford Voice, Advantage West Midlands, the Birthplace Trust and the Town Management Partnership, to name but a few, to try and ensure this project meets the needs of local people.

“These are the early stages, and if it is supported by area committee and the District Council’s South Area Committee, we look forward to carrying out a full consultation with people living in Stratford about the proposals.”

David Pywell, Director of World Class Stratford, said: “We have been delighted at the positive contributions and ideas from partners that have already helped shape the study. There appears to be a general recognition of the need to improve the environment of the town centre and an enthusiasm to make progress, especially on the historic spine route.”

Link to WCC