What's New in the Old Town

13 September 2006:

Southampton City Council has been working hard to improve the Old Town and all of the changes have made a big impact to the overall environment in this unique part of the City.

When Habitat moved into West Quay, and when Custom House, Telephone House and Marconi`s offices closed, it became clear that the Old Town was at risk of decline.

To counter this possible decline the council produced the Old Town Development Strategy, a strategy setting out urban design principles and a ten-year vision for the future development of the Old Town, seeking to create a sense of place and reconnection with the waterfront, building on the Old Town`s special character.

Since its production, the document has shaped many major redevelopments, including the redevelopment of office sites, but more importantly it acted as catalyst for a range of improvements in the Old Town

Councillor Adrian Vinson, Leader of the council said "The Old Town is unique and it is important in both Southampton`s past and future. We are committed to enhancing the Old Town as a place for everyone to enjoy".

Projects which have been completed so far include:

. Closure of Bargate Street to cars, to improve pedestrian environment
. Pedestrianisation south of the Bargate down to East Street to create a market square
. Introduction of a weekly Friday market
. Bi-monthly farmers market
. Monthly art markets
. Quarterly continental markets
. Provision of regular events and entertainment in the High Street
. Re-opening of the Bargate as a contemporary art gallery
. Major enhancements to Holy Rood, including public art installations
. Feature lighting of the Bargate and newly refurbished Holy Rood Church site
. Re-opening of old Town Walls, Arundel Tower and the Castle Way footbridge
. Refurbishment of street lighting in Bugle Street and at Town Quay
. Creation of a Jane Austen heritage trail
. Removal of unnecessary street clutter
. Better maintenance and cleansing of street furniture including new street name plates
. Funding for restoration and repair of Tudor House secured

The focus on improving this important part of the city will continue to complement the ongoing work establishing the North South spine from London Road to Town Quay.

For further information:
Web:www.southampton.gov.uk