Views sought on £1.8m town plan
FRESH details about the options for an £1.85 million scheme to improve Hinckley town centre have been revealed and residents are being asked to give their opinions.
The four-year High Street Heritage Action Zone project will focus on Castle Street, Church Walk car park and the area’s historic jitties and yards.
As part of the scheme, building owners and occupiers will be able to apply for grants for repairs and reinstating traditional features, with a particular focus on shop fronts.
Planners will also look at how vacant buildings and spaces can be redeveloped and a range of events and activities will be put on to engage people with Hinckley’s heritage and culture.
The aim is to make the area more welcoming, to develop the town’s distinctive character and to improve walking access and ease of movement for visitors.
People can view and comment on the proposals for the area around the Church Walk car park, including options for street furniture and landscaping, online or by meeting the project team at events over the coming days.
Deputy leader of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Councillor David Bill, said: “I urge everyone to get involved in this project and take a look at the proposed designs.
“The teams involved wants to hear your thoughts and opinions.
“The earlier survey provided us with valuable information and we hope that shortly we will be in a position to start to progress things and start work in the not-too-distant future.
“The survival of our high street and town centre is vital to the economy and these improvements will be a great boost.”
In April, a survey raised concerns about a risk of decline as shopping habits change and suggested more focus on culture, entertainment and leisure, to attract more visitors.
In light of the results of the survey, landscape designers McGregor Coxall has developed a range of options to improve public spaces along Castle Street, Upper Castle Street and the area around the Church Walk car park.
The project team will be in Castle Street on Monday, from 10am to 2pm.
They will also be available to discuss the options at the Hinckley BID office, in Castle Street, next Tuesday, from 10am to 2pm.
All comments need to be received by October 1.
DESIGN OPTIONS OUT FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION