Town centre improvements take next step

Phase three of the project started at the end of last month with work to install cables that will supply electricity to the new ‘pop-up’ electric points for traders and events, and to power new lighting columns and feature lighting.

Coun David Pressley, portfolio holder for Community Prosperity, said: “The public, traders and retailers should really start to notice a difference along Bridge Street in the coming weeks.”

“The priority for us is to deliver a quality scheme safely and effectively, while at the same time ensuring that we keep disruption to a minimum and ensure that it does not impact on trade and the normal operation of the town centre.”

The first phase to remove planters and a limited number of trees to help improve the layout and function of the market was completed in December 2012.

The second phase to improve the streetscape and paving materials at the top of Bridge Street, by Old Market Square was completed in January and also included the relocation of a refurbished traditional red telephone box.