A panel of experts has delivered its findings on what could make West Bridgford better after months of research.
Rushcliffe Borough Council appointed three independent commissioners, who have been capturing the views of 450 people through questionnaires, interviews, presentations and consultations.
Commissioner Mick Burrows said: “We want to reflect the great place West Bridgford is and the report highlights the spirit and ambitions of local people and businesses.
“It’s important to stress our findings are suggestions to the West Bridgford Growth Board and they will decide over time if, how and when any of these findings are implemented.”
Here are some of the most eye-catching things the commissioners recommended in the report, published today;
1. West Bridgford needs a ‘brand’
A brand identity, and vision, should be developed and articulated for West Bridgford. The suggestion is to name this ‘The West Bridgford Way’ (WBW). This, the report says, help it to maintain its identity and could involve things like a streetscape map and lead on to improved shop fronts.
2. Get better at digital
To improve its online presence and effectiveness, the report says, the town could turn the library into a ‘knowledge hub’. Appointing a digital manager could also help and there is also a recommendation to assess how good and consistent Wifi access is throughout the town.
3. Do the place up a bit and make it easier to get to
Ways to do this would include planting more greenery in the town centre to act as a focal point for the town as well as to hide some ugly buildings. They also suggested implementing a “flexible” parking scheme and increasing the areas in which cars can be parked.
4. Use ANPR cameras to stop people driving down Central Avenue
By using cameras within the town centre, cars will be less likely to drive down Central Avenue at restricted times. Drivers could be fined for breaking the rules.
5. Larger availability for public transport options
By securing more low emission buses for routes that run through Central Avenue which will allow for lower pollution in the area and noise in the town centre. Some routes have already had these changes but the report believes this will be a big part of the “West Bridgford Way”.
6. Cycling is a huge aspect of the town’s future
Bicycle lanes and routes could be rolled out across the town and the options that cyclists have to store their bikes in town could be improved. They are also keen to widen roads to allow drivers access for all people as well as special interest groups.
The Commissioners who began collecting information from a variety of sources using questionnaires,interviews and interactive presentations.
Young people were were also asked their ideas through a series of talks in schools and a poster competition to help capture their thoughts.
The commissioners, who were appointed voluntarily, include Mick Burrows, a former Nottinghamshire County Council Chief Executive and local resident, Kim Cassidy, a Professor of Retail Marketing and a retail specialist from Nottingham Trent University and Tim Richmond, an experienced entrepreneur, chartered accountant and local businessman.
