Chance to have your say on Cirencester plans at Moreton event

Plans for major changes to Cirencester town's centre are in the works. 

The changes - which have been drafted by Gloucestershire County Council - aim to improve the safety of the town centre for pedestrians and cyclists.

As Moreton residents frequently visit the town they are being invited to take part in the public consultation with an event organised for March. 

Some of the proposed traffic orders aim to respond to the issue of vehicles ignoring the pedestrian-only sign at the Market Place entrance of Cricklade Street.

ROAD: Cricklade Street in Cirencester (Image: Camilla Foster)

A steady stream of motorists travel on the busy street every day and some residents are concerned that young children and elderly pedestrians could get hurt. 

Speaking to Cotswold Journal's sister paper the Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard last August, resident Steve Morton said: "Motorists who blatantly ignore the signs pose a threat to pedestrians who are more vulnerable.

"For example, an old lady using a walking frame will not be able to jump out of the road quickly if a driver is coming down the street quickly."

Councillor Juliet Layton, cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: “This vision for Cirencester is a starting point to inform the development of the town centre in the future.

"The plan will include how we foresee transport and movement around the town and the design of new buildings and will build on the existing successful retail and cultural uses in the town.

HALL: The Redesdale Hall (Image: Google)

“A change of uses in the town centre will mean a wider range of services including business and employment, education, leisure, entertainment, culture, community and health.

“Cirencester has a rich heritage, which draws tourists from all over the world. The masterplan will seek to protect and enhance the town’s history, creating a more accessible network of cultural and heritage sites across the town.

“This is an exciting opportunity for residents to get involved in this vision and I urge residents to be a part of the process to make Cirencester an even better place to live, work and visit.”

Residents will have the opportunity to see the emerging ideas and speak to town planners at Moreton's event which is being held at Redesdale Hall, High Street, Moreton-in-Marsh, on Wednesday, March 6, between 10am and 8pm. 

A further event is being held at Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, on Wednesday, February 21 from 10am until 8pm.

Views on the plans can be given on the council’s digital engagement site your.cotswold.gov.uk from February 1 to March 17 - for the masterplan - and February 1 to March 24 - for the local plan.