Loughborough town centre regeneration scheme moves to next phase

A £2million scheme to regenerate Loughborough town centre continues to move forward.

Councillors are due to discuss the latest stage at a virtual meeting.

The Bedford Square Gateway Project will see changes to the southern end of the town centre and create a more attractive and pedestrian-friendly destination for shoppers.

Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet will meet on May 7 to discuss the next stage of the project including approving the overall design.

Cllr Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough, said: “Our local economy has taken a hammering in the past few weeks and we know social distancing is going to have an impact on our lives for some time yet.

“Therefore it’s important to look to the future and at ways to support our town centres and businesses. The Bedford Square Gateway Project is one way of doing this as it will greatly enhance Loughborough town centre and play a role in the town’s long term recovery.

“As a Council we are committed to leading the recovery of the borough and will be working with local businesses, partners and residents to restore our communities and local economy.”

The Council has made some changes to the scheme following a public exhibition in February, including adding a pedestrian crossing point at the Granby Street end of Devonshire Square.

Cabinet members will consider commissioning further technical work for the project, involving legal agreements and further detailed design drawings, to meet county highway requirements.

The scheme covers Bedford Square, Ward’s End and Devonshire Square and sees footpaths widened and re-paved and character street lighting and furniture added.

Councillors will also discuss plans to phase the work to ensure the remaining funds are available.

A public exhibition at John Storer House in March saw 116 people attend to give their views.

The Council hopes work can start early in 2021 and be completed by October 2021.