World Class Vision

A multi-million pound scheme to bring Stratford-upon-Avon up to world class status is underway. Proposals are being drawn up by Stratford-on-Avon District Council, in partnership with a number of organisations, including Warwickshire County Council and Advantage West Midlands, to turn the vision into reality.

A key step in the process takes place next week, when a seminar is being held to outline the arrangements for developing the scheme. Local businesses, tourist attractions and public bodies will be represented at the seminar to give their views on the priorities for the town. Wider public consultation will take place in the autumn.

"We are at an early stage in this project but we are keen to make sure that the principles of what we are aiming for are out in the open," said Cllr Les Topham, the district council leader.

"What we are looking at is to carry out the work identified in other schemes around the town, such as Waterfront Master Plan and the proposals regarding Waterside, and link these into the RSC's development, with the aim of making Stratford a world class town.

"The most important aspect in all of this is that we are working in partnership with a number of organisations and that the public will be fully consulted on the proposals once we have something we can show them."

After preparing the vision, the next stage will be to draw up an 'urban design framework' document, which will set out the guidelines on what is being proposed and where.

The seminar is on 11 July from 9.30am to 4.00pm at the district council's headquarters, Elizabeth House, Church Street, Stratford upon Avon.

The parties involved in the project are: the District Council, Warwickshire County Council, Stratford upon Avon Town Council, Stratford Town Management Partnership, Stratford Society, Stratford Town Trust, Police, Royal Shakespeare Company, Birthplace Trust, Advantage West Midlands, Community Forum, parish councils in surrounding area, South Warwickshire Housing Association, South Warwickshire Primary Care Trust, Stratford Racecourse, Central Trains, Chiltern Trains, Stratford College, The Chamber of Commerce, Stratford Manufacturers Association, South Warwickshire Tourism, Hotel and Catering Association.