Town Centre Feasibility Studies (Highways, Parking and Public Realm)

Description

This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The appointed contractor/supplier will be expected to ensure adherence to all UKSPF guidance. Knutsford Town Council is developing a Town Centre Masterplan for Knutsford, to set out a vision and forward plan for ensuring the ongoing vitality of Knutsford Town Centre. The masterplan will look to solve the long-discussed question of how to improve the pedestrian experience; the town has been polarised on pedestrianisation and it is considered that a solution which retains vehicular access whilst improving the pedestrian experience will generate the greatest support. In 2019/20 the Town Council developed and consulted on the From Top to Bottom Street report. This proposed a limited vehicular accessibility scheme (LVAS). The intention of this scheme was to control the flow and destination of traffic in the commercial heart of Knutsford and divided the town centre into three sectors which essentially form three loops - traffic cannot pass through the town centre, but can access the majority of the town centre. The From Top to Bottom Street report also proposed the creation of new public realm areas and changes to car parking arrangements. The principles were supported at a public consultation. We are now looking to undertake feasibility studies on different aspects of the From Top to Bottom Street report to ascertain its viability and costs. This will then form part of the Town Centre Masterplan which we (Knutsford Town Council) would work with Cheshire East Council to see delivered. Please see the tender pack for full information.