SHOPPERS and business owners have welcomed the pedestrianisation of Carlton Place as the work is completed.
Works to pedestrianise Carlton Place and other improvements on Bedford Place are now complete.
Extensive work has been taking place since earlier this year to make the area greener and more pedestrian friendly.
Carlton Place now has a brighter, level surface making it safer for people walking as well as improving the options for restaurants and cafes to offer outdoor dining.
There is also a new open public space at the junction of Upper Bannister Street for pop-up markets and entertainment.
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A curved buildout at the junction with Bedford Place provides additional safety for pedestrians, slowing traffic to support the 20mph speed limit, as well as the new zebra crossing between Henstead Road and Carlton Place.
The redesigned square has been welcomed by residents and business owners alike.
Caroline French, managing director at W.J. French & Sons, said: “The area looks more attractive and is a larger, more usable space which will be great for outside eating, extending the Bedford Place Festival and hosting regular markets.
“I feel confident this will bring more people and trade to the area and is something for us to continue building on."
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Karen Childs, 62, from Southampton said: “It’s very nice; it looks very clean and tidy compared to what it looked like before.
“I think if shops make the most of the space it will be much more like a high street, especially with the tables and chairs outside.
“It’s got a really nice feeling and looks a lot wider and more appealing."
Arliah Lappin, 30, from Southampton agreed with Karen's assessment about the cleanliness, adding: “I really like the trees and the vines as well as the wider space, it’s a lot more presentable.”
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Cllr Eamonn Keogh, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport at Southampton City Council, said: "I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the development of the Bedford Place and Carlton Place area as an attractive, safe place to spend time.
“By working together with local businesses and the community, discussing with them their aspirations for the area, we have built on its unique identity and created an attractive public space that will continue to be a key destination for hospitality and especially shopping in Southampton.”
Stephen Manion is executive director at GO! Southampton, the Business Improvement District which sees local businesses sign up to improve their environment. He said: “GO! Southampton are pleased to see the city council’s major improvements to Bedford Place and Carlton Place, which have created a much more pleasant, pedestrianised environment for residents and visitors to enjoy the wide choice of independent retailers, restaurants, pubs, and clubs.
“We have worked with the council to ensure businesses continue to trade during the works and will be encouraging people to visit the area and relax over a meal or a drink, after exploring the shops.”
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