Retford Town Centre is being given a traditional make-over with new street furniture adding a touch of class to its high streets.
New Georgian style benches have been installed alongside litter bins in prominent areas of the town centre, in addition to repainting lamp posts, tree guards and other pieces of street furniture in a traditional black and gold.
The replacements and renovations began earlier this month, with this phase of improvements expected to be completed by the beginning of November.
These improvements have been made possible thanks to significant investment by the Retford Town Centre Partnership Board (RTCPB), which has been funded by monies made available through Bassetlaw District Council’s allocation of UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Rick Brand, Chair of RTCPB, said: “The new street furniture has given our high streets a lift and is helping to improve the overall appearance of the town centre.
“This is just one of the many projects that the board is overseeing and includes additional and improved CCTV and lighting, a new Discover Retford campaign, with much more to come.
“We are very grateful for the work of our Public Realm, Safety and Security and Marketing and Communications groups, and the support that has been provided by all members of the Retford Town Centre Partnership Board.”
The new street furniture has replaced aging or damaged benches and bins across the town centre including on Carolgate, Spa Road, Exchange Street, Market Square, Grove Street, Market Place and other surrounding streets.
A second phase of investment is now being planned with planters installed in key locations to add an extra splash of colour to the town centre.
Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity, Planning and Place at Bassetlaw District Council said: “The new street furniture is a clear testament to our commitment to invest in our towns. Alongside the vibrant new planters, these enhancements will create a more welcoming and enjoyable experience for visitors.
“Retford continues to shine as a jewel in the district’s crown and make it a destination full of charm and pride.”
The improvements seek to increase pride in place across the town and make it a more attractive location to visit.
Cllr Sue Shaw, Ward Member for East Retford East and the Retford Charter Trustee representative on the RTCPB, added: “This is a very exciting time for Retford town centre. Residents will already have seen physical progress and transformation taking place, and we will soon see planters festooned with plants to further enhance the appearance of our beautiful town.
“Thanks must go to all members of the board for their hard work to make this possible. Consultation with residents was very important and we hope that people will enjoy the opportunity to walk through the town admiring the work.”
The Retford Town Centre Partnership Board was created as a continuation of the Retford Town Centre Neighbourhood Planning Group and seeks to make lasting and meaningful improvements to Retford’s Town Centre.
The Neighbourhood Plan created a ‘Vision for Retford’, which reflected the priorities of Retford’s residents, visitors and businesses.
It has been allocated a portion of Bassetlaw District Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support projects across the town centre.
This is being achieved through initiatives that promote local businesses, attract visitors to the town centre and create added value to Retford.
