Agenda item

To support the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield Plans, committee members will conduct a consultation exercise on the proposals.

The Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy presented a summary to the committee of the initial results of the public consultation. 217 responses had been received, predominantly online and separate consultation events had been held with the traders. Overall, there was a high degree of support for the plans.

Discussions took place around the four key areas of the plans and the key points were as follows:

Market Place and New Square

·        The high speed wifi was noted as a key consideration to assist traders with taking electronic payments, particularly as the number of high street banks in the town centre was declining and it was therefore becoming more common for cash machines to run out of cash.

·        Quality space for events was important to attract families to the town centre.

·        Traders working together in one space would make the area look more full and help to reduce the impact that some street sellers had on shops, particularly small businesses, both in terms of competition and disabled access.

·        The visibility of the pump was important as an historical feature and could perhaps be turned into a climate change feature to educate people about clean water.

·        The appearance of the cobbles was aesthetically pleasing but a difficult surface in terms of accessibility and it would be preferable to have level paving throughout.

·        There were mixed feelings on trees and members were aware that traders had opinions on the mess that they create and potential obstructions. It was agreed that the species and locations would need to be very carefully considered.

Rykneld Square

·        The surfacing was highlighted as a key issue in that area, particularly from an accessibility perspective and given that it is the approach to the Parish Church, a key visitor attraction.

·        When designing a public garden it would be necessary to consider the impact on the environment of watering any plants, perhaps using drought resistant planting.

Corporation Street

·        A welcoming feature to improve the approach from the railway station would be a good addition. Digital artwork was suggested as an option.

·        There is currently a set of steps providing a barrier to some people, an alternative route is needed.

Lighting

·        Intelligent lighting that could be used to present visuals or change the colour of an area would be preferable to maximise options for its use.

·        Energy costs need to be a key consideration and the use of renewable energy where possible was desirable.

·        It was acknowledged that clever lighting of buildings can make them into features.

When comparing the proposals and discussing which areas were priorities the members suggested that their main focus would be on; data connectivity, heritage, event spaces, sustainability and the redesign of the market space.

It was also concluded that it was very important to address disabled access in all areas to improve accessibility for all. This could also be reflected in the signage used, which should be appropriate, not excessive and equality assessed.

RESOLVED –

1.   That this feedback be given to the relevant officer.

2.   That an update on the project be presented to the committee once plans had been finalised.