Work has begun on the £3.1 million regeneration of part of Wycombe town centre.
Buckinghamshire Council is starting improvement works in White Hart Street, part of a package of investment across the town centre.
New paving, trees, seating and planters will be introduced, designed to create a more continuous theme with surrounding walkways through the town.
The aim is to make White Hart Street a destination in its own right and encourage people to stay longer.
The work by the council is part of a wider programme across the county. In High Wycombe alone, the council is investing multiple millions, which, alongside money from the Future High Streets Fund, will help upgrade and relet empty shops, regenerate ‘gateway’ buildings such as the Brunel Shed and the old Liberal Club and to retain key retailers in the town centre such as Primark and Tesco.
Cllr Rachael Matthews, deputy cabinet member for town centre regeneration, said:
“Enhancing our town centres is a key focus for the council and I’m really keen that the residents and businesses of High Wycombe feel the impact of our changes and improvements.
“We’re using the Future High Streets Fund and other money to invest heavily in High Wycombe town centre. The aim with the White Hart Street investment is for it to become a destination in its own right rather than the ‘cut through’ that it is now.
“We’ve worked hard to retain Tesco in the town centre too to bring more people into High Wycombe increasing footfall and opportunities for all businesses in the area. With considerable investment from the private sector also in the pipeline in High Wycombe, subject of course to the necessary planning permissions being in place, we are very positive about the future prospects of the town.
“This is about investment alongside enhancing the general appearance of the town as well as making the most of its heritage and assets. With great shopping, the Swan theatre and the university, it’s the thriving market town it should be and the public areas will also reflect that.”
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