Canterbury City Centre Plans Revealed

25 October 2016, 12:21 | Updated: 25 October 2016, 12:44

Plans to transform and modernise part of Canterbury have been released by the city council.

Officials are proposing work to redesign part of St George's Street, the main shopping street in the city. They say they want to create a flexible, attractive and vibrant open space that can be used to its full potential both in the daytime and in the evening.

Its width means it could accommodate a wide range of events, such as markets and performances.

Among the proposals are:
•De-clutter the existing street and bring in a ‘central spine’ for items such as electrical cabinets and lighting
•Bring in more light by removing the existing trees with overbearing canopies and replacing them with smaller, semi-mature trees
•Lighting improvements, including LED lighting to illuminate trees and open spaces
•Create small event spaces at either end of the street for performances, promotions and community activities
•Provide free Wi-Fi access
•Electronic information, signposting and advertising boards
•Hosting a regular market with the paving layout defining the location of the stalls

Chairman of the council’s Regeneration and Property Committee, Cllr Ben Fitter-Harding, said: "St George’s Street is one of our busiest shopping areas and a key entrance to the city, but it has declined in recent years. It’s now time to invest in improving its appearance and character.

"We have £640,000 available for this work, which should allow us to create a fantastic new public space, and look forward to hearing views on the proposals and any other suggestions people may have.”

A consultation is now open until 9 December. It can be found here www.canterbury.gov.uk/stgeorges.