A three-week work programme is taking place around the COVID-19 temporary closure of Fleet Road following the Council decision to continue the scheme, dependent on the results of further engagement and traffic monitoring.
The results will be used by councillors to decide if the pedestrianisation scheme should stay in place beyond October.
Rise Associates, an independent consultancy with experience of retail, hight street and community regeneration projects, has been appointed to carry out the work.
It will engage with all retailers and businesses impacted by the Fleet Road pedestrianisation via face-to-face interviews, an online survey, online focus group and follow-up telephone calls and letters.
During this time, residents are actively encouraged to continue to contribute their thoughts and concerns via the Council’s email address: FleetRoad@hart.gov.uk.
Data from traffic monitoring, supplemented by regular physical observation of the traffic, and feedback from the residents as mentioned above, will be used to assess the impact of the scheme on neighbouring roads.
The measures were introduced on 24 August 2020, closing Fleet Road to through traffic between Victoria Road/Upper Street and Church Road. The scheme was set up to promote social distancing, support local businesses and enhance the visitor experience in the town centre. It is supported by Hampshire County Council, Fleet Town Council and Fleet BID.
FAQs on the scheme are on the Council website.
