Plans for new market square in Carlton Place, Southampton

There may be a new square at Carlton Place to host events or markets, and for more outdoor seating for the cafes and restaurants.

The circular plaza would be at the junction between Carlton Place and Lower Bannister Street, outside the Black Phoenix pub.

There are also plans for improved CCTV and lighting for night-time revellers.

Plans for the junction between Carlton Place and Lower Bannister Street (Image: Southampton City Council)

The city council is planning to bring more widened pavements ("buildouts") to the whole area, including Bedford Place.

The temporary barriers outside Beards and Boards and Retro Café will become a new outdoor seating area with trees for an "attractive" space.

There will also be a new curved pavement at the junction between Bedford Place and Carlton Place, outside XOXO and Revolution.

A new widened pavement at Bedford Place (Image: Southampton City Council)

The council says the widening of this pavement will narrow the road and slow down traffic, in line with the 20mph speed limit planned for the whole Polygon area.

New signs will advertise the "unique" character of the area.

There will also be a loading bay for the businesses and another disabled parking bay.

The new pavement outside Beards and Boards to replace temporary barriers (Image: Southampton City Council)

The plans follow the permanent pedestrianisation of Carlton Place in February.

This was after a trial in August 2020, when temporary road closures were made using planters and decorated concrete barriers.

READ MORE: 

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Barriers in Carlton Place (Image: Newsquest.)

Speaking on the plans, the Cabinet Member for Transport and Regeneration, councillor Eamonn Keogh, said that the area is a "historical and vibrant" district, with an "excellent range of cafes and restaurants".

He added: "These plans will ensure that visitors and residents can move around the area safely.

"All the improvements have been created in partnership with local businesses and residents and I look forward to hearing their feedback on these exciting plans."

Southampton BID (Go! Southampton) was also involved with the plans.

Executive Director, Stephen Manion, said: "GO! Southampton aims to improve the city centre for businesses and visitors, and we are very pleased to be involved in the designs for Bedford Place and Carlton Place.

"The new improvements will provide safe and relaxing outdoor spaces with attractive paved plaza, outdoor seating and enhanced lighting for more people to enjoy the wide choice of independent bars, restaurants, shops and clubs during the daytime and evenings."

Residents can give their views on the plans in the consultation until Sunday October 23.

Construction would begin in early 2023.

To view the plans and give your views, visit yourcityyoursay.southampton.gov.uk/bedfordplace 

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