'Rethinking Victoria Road' - have your say
With the first phase of a consultation on possible improvements to Victoria Road now complete, organisers are encouraging people to take part in one of two upcoming drop-in sessions to discuss the next steps.
The events, at the Dolphin Centre, are being held to discuss and develop some of the ideas that emerged from the first phase.
Groundwork North East & Cumbria was appointed to carry out the consultation on behalf of the council. The first stage involved visiting residents and businesses on Victoria Road itself, as well as a letter drop in the surrounding streets and an online survey.
Hundreds of residents, business and visitors have already shared their views. The main message from the first phase of consultation was that there is a lot of pride in the area and a strong sense of community, but people would like it to look and feel safer, smarter and greener.
Participants in the consultation said they would like the shop fronts to be smartened up and that more litter bins are needed.
Personal safety was also a concern, with some calling for improved lighting in the area. Traffic calming and parking was also an issue, while some said the look of the area could be improved by adding trees and hanging baskets.
Some respondents also called for Victoria Road to have its own Christmas lights during the festive period.
Next steps will be discussed at two drop in events in the Pease Suite at the Dolphin Centre. These will take place from 10.30am-1pm on Saturday (19 January) and from 3.30-7pm on Wednesday 23 January. You can turn up at any time.
The sessions will focus on several key options for discussion:
- Changes to the road layout to reduce the speed of traffic
- Creating a safer crossing point at the junction with Clifton Road and Park Place
- Introducing a one way system to create more space for pedestrians and cyclists, whilst creating green space and retaining parking
- Improving the cycle route and walking environment between St Cuthbert’s Way via the back lane to Park Place
- Increasing the amount of greenery, including tree planting
- Review parking to provide short stay parking on Victoria Embankment and Hargreave Terrace as well as on Victoria Road to support the local businesses.
- Review parking on the back lane in vicinity of the Royal Mail depot.
Councillor Nick Wallis, Cabinet member for leisure and local environment, said: “I would encourage as many people as possible to attend these events to join the discussion about how we can change Victoria Road and the surrounding area, and, just as importantly, which things people want to retain.
“A model has been constructed showing the street as it is now. This can be altered to show possible changes in 3D, making the options easier to see in the mind’s eye.
“No decisions have yet been made about any improvements that can or will be made. Once the consultation has been completed, the feedback will be used to develop a design and we will need to put a business case through the Tees Valley Combined Authority for funding.”
For more information, call 01325 464270.