PLANS have been unveiled to transform Berkeley town centre into an attractive town square.

Berkeley Town Council has revealed plans for its 'exciting' improvement project.

Organisers hope that the revamp will turn the town into a popular destination for tourists and residents, allowing local businesses to thrive.

Proposals include establishing a new market area with improved pedestrian access and lower speed limits, as well as new bike facilities and benches.

The project has now recently received a grant of more than £40,000 from Stroud District Council to help fund the next stage.

Suggested plans also include creating a statue to commemorate local vaccine legend Edward Jenner as well as constructing flower beds. 

Other plans include introducing traffic calming measures reducing the speed limit, adding a new pedestrian crossing point, increasing the width of footpaths as well as changing traffic priority at the junction of Salter and Marybrook Street. 

Gazette Series: Berkeley market place which could be transformed into an attractive town square Berkeley market place which could be transformed into an attractive town square (Image: Google Maps)

A spokesperson for Berkeley Town Council said: “Following a successful consultation in June 2022, the town council is now embarking on an exciting Town Improvement Project. 

“The TIP Committee has been formed through a joint council and public team looking to make Berkeley safer, greener, more accessible and more pleasant for all to enjoy.  

"The diagrams included in the consultation show how a new market area will be created to host and revive the market town that Berkeley once was."

Gazette Series: A concept plan which would see Berkeley town centre transformed A concept plan which would see Berkeley town centre transformed  (Image: Berkeley Town Council)

Under the proposals there would be no reductions in parking spaces.

However, according to a consultation document, the town council is also “investigating options” to increase the size of the existing car parks.

A spokesperson added: “In addition, new access to cross the road and speed reduction techniques will ensure more prioritisation to pedestrians in this area.  

“Bike facilities and resting places will allow and encourage the many who come through Berkeley on the National Cycle route to take a break and enjoy the local shops and cafes.  

“Lastly, planting and green areas will make the centre a vibrant and calmer place to relax in.” 

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More than 180 people suggested feedback and ideas to the town council's proposals between April and June last year.

The town council also say they are working closely with Gloucestershire Highways to ensure that the scheme will benefit the community for future generations. 

Organisers say they expect to carry out the design in 2023/2024 with work starting in 2024/2025 depending on funding and permission approvals.

You can view the concept plan for Berkeley town centre here - https://tinyurl.com/bdh9w2vd