£3m regeneration for Oakengates town centre

The move follows extensive public consultation with traders, residents and the business community in Oakengates and will result in substantial improvements to the town centre and its public spaces.

Proposed improvements include:

Market Street/Oxford Street: Improvements to paving, management of on-street parking, removal of unnecessary street furniture and enhancements to the junction of Lion Street and Market Street.

An expanded Theatre Square between The Place and Market Street to provide an opportunity for the theatre to play a more prominent role in the local economy and community.

The development of a 4,000 sq ft retail store with adjacent car parking and a redesigned bus station.

Work is expected to start on the £3.1m scheme by summer 2011 and most of the funding will come from the Borough Towns Initiative programme.

Councillor Sean Kelly, cabinet member for a Community-Focussed, Efficient Council, said: “Telford & Wrekin Council is committed to regenerating all our Borough Towns and I am absolutely delighted that we have identified funding to regenerate Oakengates.

“These proposals are the result of extensive public consultation with residents and traders, Oakengates Town Council and the newly formed Regeneration Partnership.

“I feel we have gained excellent feedback on the direction that people in Oakengates want to see the town moving and this investment will go a long way to achieving that.

“I would like to thank everyone who has contributed both for their input and patience and we now look forward to delivering comprehensive and sustainable regeneration for the town as part of our ongoing regeneration programme.”

Councillor Eric Carter, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “This investment will result in a major revamp of the heart of Oakengates to help boost its economic vibrancy as well as improving access and movement through the town centre.”