MP Alex Chalk has welcomed the news that the missing paving slabs and sections of replacement tarmac on Cheltenham’s High Street will be replaced with high quality paving. Work will begin on 26th September, starting on the High St between Rodney Rd and the entrance to the Regent Arcade.
Alex said: “I have been lobbying Gloucestershire County Council for some time to make improvements. I appreciate that there will always be the need for utility works and pavement repairs. But when that happens, repair work needs to be of the highest possible quality. Over the years that clearly hasn’t always been the case, and it’s let the town down.
“The High Street is one of our flagship destinations. I want residents and tourists in the town centre to know that they’re in a vibrant and special zone. How that looks is important. That’s why getting all those tarmac patches replaced will make a positive difference. It will support our excellent shops, restaurants and businesses, and will reinforce Cheltenham’s reputation as a top place to live, visit and socialise.”
The news will be confirmed by the County Council’s Cabinet member Cllr Vernon Smith, following a question from Cllr Tim Harman (Park) at the Full Council on Wednesday 14th Sept.
Cllr Harman’s question: “Will the cabinet member outline his plans to improve the surface of the High Street in Cheltenham replacing the unsightly "black top " with high quality paving. Also will he agree to convene a meeting in Cheltenham with appropriate Officers of the County Council and Cheltenham Borough Council to determine a plan for a better High Street.”
Cllr Harman said: “This is excellent news. The surface of Cheltenham’s High Street has been allowed to become shabby and unsightly, and this will make a big difference.”
Cllr Vernon Smith’s response: “We have inspected the High Street with Amey in detail and it is apparent that the issue goes back before the present Amey contract. The areas of tarmac are quite considerable over the town. Our plan is to concentrate on one area at a time, starting on the High Street between Rodney Road and the entry to Regent Arcade and working out from there. There are three areas with different slab types and Amey are proposing to start on the one with the most common sizes (no waiting time from suppliers). Works are planned to start on Monday the 26th September.''