Enhancement scheme for Southam town centre

A scheme to enhance the appearance of Southam Town Centre, to improve links between local transport and provide a more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors to Southam has been approved for construction in early 2015.

Funding for this project for Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwickshire County Council has been made available through the legal Section 106 agreement of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 relating to the development of land at Holywell Business Park, Northfield Road, Southam, Warwickshire for the development of a Tesco Store.

The £350,000 scheme includes:

• A dedicated footway for pedestrians waiting for bus services
• A pedestrian refuge
• Changes to the layout of the parking area
• Upgrading of street furniture
• An improved layout for vehicles using the short-term parking on Market Hill.

Also included in the scheme is the proposed closure of Wood Street at its junction with High Street, removing the current conflict between pedestrians and vehicles where both carriageway and footway are narrow. Pedestrian access from High Street will remain in place.

Cllr Mark Willoughby, Southam Town Council, Town Mayor says: "The historic Market Town of Southam was in need of refurbishment to ensure a prosperous future and this scheme will deliver a once-in-a-generation opportunity, that will revitalise and boost the economy of the Town Centre"

Cllr Jennie Ellard, Southam ward member for Stratford-on-Avon District Council says: “This project will greatly improve an important gateway to Southam town centre as well as making it much safer for pedestrians.  All these improvements will shape the future of the town centre and create a vibrant shopping area."

Cllr John Appleton, Southam Ward member for Warwickshire County Council says: “Whilst there may be some temporary disruption during the works, the benefits to the Town Centre will encourage a more vibrant and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike."

Extensive consultation has already taken place with residents and businesses of Southam and the surrounding areas, revealing that a majority of 82% of responders were in favour of the proposals.

This scheme also involves the introduction of Traffic Regulation Orders for which the statutory consultation period will start on 11^th September 2014 and run for three weeks.

Any enquiries relating to the proposed Scheme may be made to Phil Mitton Project Manager, Communities Group, Warwickshire County Council on 01926 412536 or visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/TrafficSchemes. 

Further details regarding the Statutory Consultation procedure will be available from 11^th September 2014.