Rushcliffe Borough Council and Nottinghamshire County Council are set to undertake a feasibility study exploring how best to improve the accessibility of Central Avenue in West Bridgford.
The authorities agreed to the study last year that will now see some preliminary results analysed this autumn following a desire among local businesses to create a pedestrian-based heart in the town centre.
The assessment will investigate further improving accessibility and to seek the views of all affected users, including the local public.
It builds on a survey completed by Central West Bridgford Community Association in 2021 that showed positive support for such ideas.
Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Simon Robinson said: “This project continues in line with West Bridgford Growth Board meetings to date and previous work with the West Bridgford Commissioners that referenced a desire to create a more pedestrian-friendly town centre.
“There is still a consensus of support from local businesses for its potential and the study will assess rerouting public transport and disability access and now we will look at its outcomes to see if a capital project could be developed.
“These preliminary results will be ready later this year when we will again listen and work with businesses and all stakeholders on the options in front of us.”
Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, Councillor Keith Girling, said,
“While we recognise these aspirations for the area, we have to consider the wider implications any proposal would have on our busy highways network, not to mention this key public transport route.
“The wider needs of individuals with mobility issues will be carefully considered as well as practical arrangements such as how businesses along the Avenue get their deliveries.
“This study will give us the opportunity to assess all options, taking all these important factors into account.
“I look forward to seeing the findings.”
