Town traders asked to share views on latest plans to revitalise Sudbury
Business owners are being encouraged to share their views on the next phase of an ambitious project designed to revitalise Sudbury and boost prosperity.
The proposals are part of Vision for Sudbury – a document setting out plans to redevelop the area, while maximising the town’s potential in the future.
Babergh District Council and Suffolk County Council have joined forces to garner opinion from a range of businesses on ideas to transform Market Hill into a vibrant area, with WSP consultants commissioned to carry out the research.
Earlier this year, members of the group spearheading the project hosted a public exhibition, which provided insight into a range of projects planned for the town, including a scheme to relocate the bus station in Hamilton Road to an on-street facility.
Reflecting on the temporary parking ban imposed on Market Hill, Michael Holt, Babergh District Council’s cabinet member for economic growth, highlighted that the move had offered insight into a more permanent scheme for the area.
He said: “Although the current changes to Market Hill that have been put in place by Sudbury Town Council have been driven by Covid-19 and social distancing measures to keep shoppers safe, they have, perhaps, given us a chance to see what sort of affect any future remodelling may have on the area.
“While we have been working closely with Sudbury Town Council to monitor and support the town’s recovery, now is the time to build upon the first round of engagement in January to collate feedback and views of local businesses on our longer term plans for a thriving and sustainable town centre, with Market Hill at its heart.”
Praising the strength of the community’s spirit in the recent months, Sudbury Town Centre manager Rachel Price said: “There are a multitude of factors affecting local businesses at this time.
“Despite the incredibly difficult circumstances, businesses have been working hard to stay connected with loyal customers (and attract new ones) and, in turn, there has been a renewed commitment to support local shops.
“The market has continued to be a central focus, attracting both local loyal shoppers and visitors from further afield – we are, after all, an ancient market town and this provision is central to our town’s character.”
Emphasising the importance in ensuring the town reaches its full potential, while enticing visitors to the area, Ms Price added: “It is vital that we continue to keep Sudbury vibrant, by promoting our unique heritage, independent businesses and beautiful green spaces, offering a range of tools to enable visitors to explore Sudbury, as well as hosting activities to attract more people to Market Hill and the wider area.”
Businesses can share their views on the plans by going online to www.babergh.gov.uk/markethillsurvey. All feedback must be completed by 5pm today.
Public opinion on the proposals will be sought at a later date.