Radical plans to redesign Cirencester (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Radical plans to redesign Cirencester

THE centre of Cirencester could be transformed into a European-style piazza if radical new plans are given the go ahead.

Action Cirencester want to change the layout of the town's historic Market Place for the first time in 170 years to create a town centre for the 21st century.

The group, which includes architects, business owners, councillors and local organisations, sees the plans as part of an ongoing project to make the town safer and more attractive to shoppers and visitors.

Speaking at last week's annual town council meeting Nigel Robbins from Action Cirencester said: "We have come up with a proposal for the Market Place that sets out what we hope will be a gradual reduction of the car in favour of the pedestrian."

The plans include: - Redirecting traffic down one side of the Market Place in front of the Corn Hall - Reducing the current number of car parking places by eight - Creating a large pedestrianised piazza for the Charter and farmers' markets - Crossing points to improve pedestrian safety The Market Place last received a revamp in the 1830s - before the Corn Hall was even built - and Action Cirencester believes the new plans will all the area to function as a proper town centre.

Phase one of the proposals would see the realignment of the carriageway, parking bays, bus stops and taxi ranks at an estimated cost of up to £120,000. A second phase to create the paved piazza would follow as funding is made available.

Discussions with local shop owners and retailers have already revealed a great deal of support for the plans.

Nicholas Arbuthnott, architect and Action Cirencester member who co-designed the new layout, said: "Many small businesses are threatened by the larger-out-of-town retailers.

Our first concern was to devises a scheme that would attract more visitors and improve the town's economy.

This scheme will do that. It creates a proper town centre which would enhance the beauty of our ancient market town and re-invigorate civic pride."

The plans are now set to be discussed by Cotswold District Council, Cirencester Town Council and other key stakeholders as well as the public to gauge views on the initial plans before a final scheme is decided on.

What do you think of the plans - email reporter Jenni Silver with your views to jenni@wiltsglosstandard.co.uk