A TEMPORARY speed reduction to 20mph in Stratford town centre will be made permanent.
Authorities say the reduction – introduced as part of traffic management measures during the pandemic – was met with a high level of approval among residents and businesses. The legal process to obtain a Traffic Regulation Order has been started and is being funded through a developer contribution from jeweller business Pragnells.
Business owners who have benefitted from outdoor seating during times of closure of High Street are also encouraged to apply for a pavement licence.
Other covid safety measures in Stratford town centre are set to be lifted in line with the Government’s lockdown roadmap.
They include barriers on Bridge Street to increase space for shoppers and the suspension of parking on the street. High Street has seen timed closures between 11am and 6pm.
The strategy supported the return of residents and visitors to the town’s shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and other businesses as they reopened after the first lockdown.
Works to remove these schemes will be carried out according to Government guidance, to tie in with the ending of all restrictions which, following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Monday, will now be on July 19.
Stratford District Council’s economy spokesman Coun Daren Pemberton said: “The temporary scheme was not without controversy but it is clear that it has had a beneficial impact in supporting the economic recovery of the town. The pavement licence system affords an opportunity for businesses to cement their recovery through 2021. In addition, the embedding of a 20mph speed limit is a significant step forward in enhancing the resident and visitor experience of the town.”
Town mayor Kevin Taylor added: “The pandemic drove us into uncharted waters, but some of the enforced measures developed into real benefits for businesses, particularly in High Street. I would urge those businesses to apply for a pavement license so this continental approach and feeling of vibrancy is retained.”
