WORK has started on a four-month project that aims to enhance a "unique" part of Southampton by "elevating its character".
The city council and its highways partner, Balfour Beatty Living Places, have begun to implement a raft of improvements to Carlton Place and Bedford Place.
The scheme is designed to upgrade the area, enhancing its status as a speciality shopping and hospitality destination.
Carlton Place will boast areas where hospitality providers can offer outdoor tables, while a piazza-style area suitable for pop-up events and markets will be created at the junction of Carlton Place and Lower Bannister Street.
The scheme also includes upgraded CCTV and lighting to improve visibility at night.
READ MORE: Designs reveal plan for new market square in Carlton Place
A wide, curved area of pavement at the junction of Bedford Place and Carlton Place will create an attractive public area complete with seating and trellis structures for climbing plants.
The temporary hospitality area at Bedford Place will be replaced with a permanent buildout, plus designated loading and parking areas for people with disabilities.
Parts of Bedford Place will also be reduced in width to slow vehicles and make the area safer.
A council spokesperson said: "The works will elevate the character of the area as a place to socialise and shop, whilst reducing traffic speeds and increasing safety in the area.
"This includes the creation of a pedestrianised, piazza-style public area to encourage outside dining on Carlton Place as well as a widened pavement area at its junction with Bedford Place."
The scheme is due to be completed by April 14.
Part of Bedford Place will be closed for about six weeks, but the council says access for residents and businesses in Canton Street, Bedford Place and Carlton Place will be maintained.
Temporary two-way traffic lights will operate at the junction of Southampton Street and Carlton Place for four weeks.
Contractors have set up a small compound in the car park on Upper Bannister Street. Parking will be reduced but still available throughout the works.
Cllr Eamonn Keogh, cabinet member for district regeneration, has said 89 per cent of people who took part in a public consultation felt the scheme would make the area feel safer as well as enhancing the local environment and improving access for people with mobility issues.
He added: "I'm sure local businesses, residents and visitors to this unique area will benefit enormously."
A message from the Editor
Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.
Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.
You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.
Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook
Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel