Re-claiming our village centre?

In January 2010 we held a public meeting to discuss how we could make the centre of the village more pedestrian-friendly. We provided some initial sketches of how things could look, and invited the traders along.

You can download the 2 sketches here:
Images (PDF, 530KB)
Maps (PDF, 275KB)

Here's a report on how the meeting went.

The sketches weren't signed-off plans, just a starter for 10, and we welcomed people's feedback on them.

Since that first meeting we've met further with the traders to talk about what we could do together to improve trade in the village and make the centre more attractive. If you'd like to take part in any further sessions on this, please email suswot2050@gmail.com

But won't something like the scheme above be bad for business?

We think a scheme like this would be good for the community, good for business, and good for shoppers.

Extensive research over a number of years shows that schemes to increase pedestrian priority have the potential to bring about increases in footfall for retail services of 20-40%, with more than a 17% increase in turnover and a similar impact on rents [Source: "The effect of urban quality improvements on economic activity", Tim Whitehead, David Simmonds & John Preston, Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 80, Issue 1; July, 2006].

A similar review of the research literature on this topic by Transport for London also found that pedestrian schemes have a positive impact on a town centre’s vitality and viability ["The Benefits of Town Centre Pedestrianisation and Public Realm Schemes", TfL, 2002].

However, many shop owners overestimate the number of shoppers using cars to get to the shops. Bristol-based Sustrans did some research on shoppers and how they travel. They looked at evidence in Europe, including areas of Bristol. Their research in a Bristol retail centre showed that 55% of shoppers walked to the shops, 6% cycled, 13% came by bus and 22% drove. However, shop owners significantly overestimated the numbers of those coming by car – they estimated car users were 41% of the shoppers. Read the study.

And on customer spend, Transport for London's Town Centre Survey showed that those who walked to their town centres spend almost 50% more than those who visit by car or bus ["Town Centre Survey", Transport for London, 2004:15].

Sustrans concluded that "...Major investment in the walking environment, such as wider pavements and traffic restraint measures, should result in attracting more regular, dedicated custom to the area and have a positive impact on retailers and customers alike".