Basildon Councillors are set to decide on plans to implement Saturday road closures in Wickford High Street.
At a meeting of the Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee on Wednesday 20 January, councillors will decide on whether to pedestrianise the high street every Saturday, for a period of six months.
If approved, the six month trial period would start in March, at the same time as the planned launch of the new Wickford Market.
Chairman of the Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee, Councillor David Harrison, said: “The regeneration of Wickford Town Centre remains a key priority for the Council. Wickford has a growing population and it is important that the town centre is revitalised to ensure that Wickford is sustainable as a retail and leisure location.
“Pedestrianising the high street on a Saturday is supported by the high street businesses and the residents of Wickford, and will help to generate additional footfall and create opportunities for local people, while enhancing the economic viability and vitality of the town centre.”
The council undertook a survey back in January 2020 to determine the level of support from local businesses and high street visitors to potential road closures. With over 400 responses, the results of the consultation found that respondents were overwhelming in favour of closing the road on Saturdays.
