Residents are being asked to give their views on what needs to be done to revive the Front Street area.
There are fewer empty shop units on Front Street compared to 3 years ago (above)
The York Council recently announced that it will invest in the Front Street area and the expectation is that experts will recommend a way forward. Although the shopping area has had a boost over recent years, with the Acomb Alive traders organisation holding a series of events, many feel that a change to the physical layout of the precinct will be necessary to tempt larger numbers of shoppers back to the village.
A monthly street market has been very popular and it is hoped to build on its success.
The next market is being held on Saturday 24th June.
Responding to a door to door survey, recently launched in the Hamilton Drive and St Stephens Road areas by the Westfield ward Councillors team, residents have already indicated how often they use services on the Front Street area.
The majority have said that they frequently use the supermarket, local shops and the bank/post office facilities.
Residents are also being asked to rate several potential improvements. These include:
- Providing a level surface across the whole of the pedestrian area including the forecourts
- Improving litter and rubbish management
- Providing a “big screen” focal point
- Generally repaint and refurbish street furniture and signs
- Providing easier parking
- Narrowing the carriageway in “old” Front St to make it more pedestrian friendly.
The hope is that the survey will prompt some original thinking by both residents and commercial users in the area.
A public meeting has been scheduled to take place, on 12th July at 6:30pm in the Gateway Centre, to discuss how the Front St area can be regenerated.
In the meantime, interested parties can complete a brief on line survey by clicking here