Companies report noticing indications of an economic upturn following the resumption of activities in the town’s Market Square.
A multimillion-pound renovation of the plaza in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, commenced in January the previous year as part of an extensive £15 million development project.
Huseyin Aslan from the Market Cafe stated that the disruption led businesses to “endure significant hardship,” yet he remained optimistic, believing they could “overcome this setback.”
The square remains accessible as contractors plan to come back over the summer to complete some last details, according to the Huntingdonshire District Council.
The initiative eliminated all automobile parking within the square, making it entirely pedestrian-friendly, while introducing several new disability-designated spaces along the surrounding streets.
Chairs and greenery have also been introduced into the plaza.
“The appearance is far more vivid, adaptable, and roomy. It seems like a downtown area revitalized after years… which brings considerable relief,” remarked Mr. Aslan.
I certainly think it appears much improved and is something the town required, but I cannot determine if it was worthwhile considering the delay; it took four months longer than anticipated.
“We have been seeing people come from other towns and I’m already seeing signs [of recovery].”
The development plan for Cambridgeshire’s biggest market town involves revitalizing the extensively unused area
Old Falcon Inn
reinstated for residential purposes through renovation
market square
and renovating the
Priory Centre
.
It has received funding from organizations such as the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Huntingdonshire District Council, Cambridgeshire County Council, and National Highways.
Liz Owen, who operates Access in St Neots, expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of clear signage for disabled parking spaces at the square.
She stated: “Many people, including myself, are upset because the council has implemented minimal signage, and there isn’t even any painted lettering on the pavement.”
What we observe is individuals parking without a blue badge; if you’re disabled and wish to park, your chances of finding a spot are quite slim.
Mike Gildersleeves, the corporate director of place at the district council, disclosed that contractors will mark the disabled parking spaces during the summertime.
“The remaining minor details have been meticulously planned to minimize interference with crucial events and market days, guaranteeing the square stays lively and accessible to everyone during the season,” he stated.
We invite everybody to fully utilize the new square and all the possibilities it presents.
The Mayor of St Neots, Richard Slade, mentioned that the area was formerly a cobblestone parking lot, and locals informed him that crossing it was challenging due to the risk of stumbling over the stones.
He mentioned that new enterprises had started operating in the square, however, he also noted the closure of a bakery and a café.
“There could be various reasons for their closure, but the completion of all tasks has also had an influence,” he stated.
You will inevitably reach a point where you must undertake these tasks—looking toward the future is essential.
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More on this story
- Reconstruction starts on structure at ‘town center’
- The town’s £15 million renovation had an adverse effect on business.
- Renovation of market square impacting nearby businesses
Related internet links
- Huntingdonshire District Council
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