PLANS to “create a vibrant, welcoming, and resilient high street” for Staple Hill have been announced – and people are being asked to share their ideas.
South Gloucestershire Council and Staple Hill & Mangotsfield Parish Council have announced a joint ‘Place Shaping Plan’ for Staple Hill High Street, Broad Street and Fountain Square.
They say the plan will set out priorities to make the high street a “more pleasant place to spend time”, bringing in more people to the shops and attracting new investment.
It builds on earlier work to add plants, signs and murals, remove graffiti and improve shopfronts.
The councils have launched a survey asking people what improvements they think should be prioritised from areas including: installing new trees and planters; improving shop fronts; more public art; creating new places for children to play; improving accessibility for older people, parents with pushchairs and people with disabilities; improving access from the Pendennis Estate, Page Park and the Bristol to Bath Railway Path; improving lighting and other safety measures.
People taking the survey are asked to allocate a share of “virtual funding” to show which areas they think should get most priority.
The survey suggests having a “clear and recognisable identity” for the high street area could help celebrate Staple Hill’s character and build pride in the area.
The councils say: “We believe Fountain Square could become a focal point for the High Street. Holding regular activities and events could bring people together and boost trade for local shops, cafes and businesses.
“Having spaces for play could make it a more welcoming place to spend time, encouraging more families and young people. As space is limited, this could include playful street furniture, interactive installations, or small play zones.”
The plan is being funded by the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Once adopted it will be used to help identify funding for projects.
Council cabinet member for communities Sean Rhodes said: “We’re inviting the Staple Hill community – residents, businesses, and key stakeholders – to help shape the future of the high street.
“We want local people to give us their ideas and suggestions to help make sure our plans mirror the needs of the local community.”
A web page where people can view ideas and share their own is open until December 14 at southglos.gov.uk/staple-hill-place-shaping.
More than 140 had commented as the Voice went to print.
Anyone who is not online can view a display at Staple Hill Library, and leave comments there.
The feedback will go into the council’s Place Shaping Plan, which will be published next spring and include design proposals and recommendations for future improvements.
*Shops, venues and community groups based on high streets in Staple Hill and Downend are being invited to apply for grants of up to £4,000 to improve their shopfronts.
Applications can be made up to January 9 but national chains and charities, betting shops, vape shops and businesses in administration or with licensing issues are excluded from the scheme.
For more details visit southglos.gov.uk/asfi-grant