A transformation is underway in Bedford town centre, as work begins on Monday (17 February) to redevelop one of the key projects within Bedford Borough Council’s Town Fund regeneration scheme.
St Paul’s Square, at the heart of the town centre, will undergo a “vital” refurbishment which the council says will create a “more vibrant and attractive destination, boost the town centre’s economy and improve the visitor experience”.
The work is being carried out in phases and is part of the £4.98 million investment to improve the area around Harpur Square and St Paul’s. The majority of the work is planned for during the school holidays when traffic is lighter.
It is expected to be completed in time for Christmas and pedestrian access to businesses in the surrounding area will be maintained throughout.
What’s happening?
- Replacement of paving slabs and kerbs in St Paul’s Square
- Widening of pedestrian walkways around the south side of the Square
- Creation of space for outdoor events
- Enhancement of pedestrian flow
- Improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists
- Better connection to the museums in the Cultural Quarter, Riverside Bedford, the Embankment, Silver Square and the High Street
- Creation of a right turn from Town Bridge onto the Embankment (open by the start of the summer holidays)
Of course, with any big infrastructure project, there will be traffic disruption and delays, with some Bedfordians taking to social media to vent their frustration.
No pain, no gain – road closures and diversions
From Sunday, 6 April to Wednesday, 7 May, the Embankment junction will be closed overnight from 8pm-5am.
This is to carry out works to enable traffic to turn right onto The Embankment from the Town Bridge. A diversion will be signposted during the closure hours
During the school summer holidays, St Paul’s Square will be closed for traffic between The Embankment and Horne Lane to allow for drainage and other essential work.
A diversion route will be in place, and bus services approaching Bedford town centre from the south will be diverted, although bus stops outside the Corn Exchange will not be affected. Access for pedestrians will not be affected during this stage of work.
This phase of the work is due to be completed by the end of August. On reopening, the south side of St Paul’s Square will be permanently reduced to a single lane of traffic. This will create more space and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Once the works are completed, traffic coming around the south of St Paul’s Square will be able to access the market collection bays opposite the Corn Exchange, disabled parking bays in Mayes Yard and the High Street, via the mini roundabout at the entrance to the Harpur Centre car park.
“Vital part of our vision”
Councillor Andrea Spice, portfolio holder for economic growth, planning and prosperity at Bedford Borough Council, said; “We are thrilled to be moving forward with the refurbishment of St Paul’s Square, this project is a vital part of our vision for Bedford town centre, creating a more welcoming space for all to enjoy.
“While the works progress, we encourage residents and visitors to continue to visit the amazing markets and businesses in and around St Paul’s Square.”
In the build up to these projects, public engagement events have been held at various locations and times in Bedford town centre. The council teams have been able to speak to people, discuss the plans and listen to feedback.
Information about current and planned roadworks in Bedford Borough can be found here.
