Over 400 residents take part in Victoria Street vision survey in first three weeks
A public engagement survey to develop a community vision for Victoria Street, St Albans, has seen an impressive response, with over 400 people participating in the first three weeks.
A collaboration between Hertfordshire County Council and St Albans District Council, this initiative aims to establish a community vision for enhancing the vital route between St Albans City train station and the city centre prior to any design work taking place.
The early engagement process, which runs until Tuesday 12 November, has already included two in-person events in St Albans, where residents had the opportunity to share their ideas and feedback directly with the project team through interactive activities and discussion.
Although there are no specific plans yet, the feedback from the 6-week process will help the Councils understand the need for sustainable changes on Victoria Street and decide whether to move forward with the project. The survey results will also guide the project team in setting community priorities for future designs, which could include:
- More accessible pavements
- More planting, trees and greenery.
- Spill out space for cafes and businesses to use
- Safe, protected cycle routes to the station
- More frequent bus services to a wider range of destinations.
- Safer places to cross
Cllr Phil Bibby, Executive Member for Highways & Transport at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “It’s been very encouraging to have had so many views provided to date and shows how important Victoria Street is to the residents and businesses of St Albans.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible at this early stage of engagement. If you haven’t completed the survey, I’d urge you to take part or come to the final drop-in session on Wednesday 30 October. This really is your chance to help shape what Victoria Street could look like in the future.”
Councillor Helen Campbell, Chair of the Public Realm Committee of St Albans City and District Council, said: “The feedback we have already had for the Victoria Street project is very impressive with more than 400 people having completed the survey.
“The stall set up at the Charter Market to promote the scheme also attracted much interest and I am sure there will be a good attendance at the drop-in event later in October.
“It shows that this project is causing considerable excitement and capturing the imagination of our residents. I urge those who have yet to give their views to do so and complete the survey.”
The project seeks to create a sustainable, safe, and vibrant street that benefits the entire community, supports local businesses and boosts tourism.
To find out more, residents are invited to attend a drop-in session at the Marlborough Road Methodist Church Hall on Wednesday 30 October, 4-7pm.
For more information and to participate in the survey by Tuesday 12 November 2024, visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/VictoriaStreet.
(News item produced in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council)