Queensway improvements set for approval

Work to transform Queens Square has already started as part of a £3.2m project to create a high quality, inviting, and distinctive public space.

Crawley Borough Council is now looking to regenerate the connecting Queensway, Kingsgate and The Pavement, holding a public consultation earlier this year.

The £2.2m scheme, which would be part funded by the borough council and West Sussex County Council, is set to be approved by CBC’s cabinet on Wednesday March 22.

Members of the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Commission are also set to scrutinise the proposals on Monday March 20.

The project would improve links between the town centre and the town hall, memorial gardens, library, and Central Sussex College.

The Queensway has also been identified as a home for a new and improved town centre market.

A total of 42 people responded to the consultation, with residents describing the current area as uninviting, dated, cluttered, and bland.

When asked to comment on the proposed plans, 12 responded positively, eight negatively, and six were neutral, while 15 others provided suggestions, improvements or adjustments to the proposals.

Proposals include more attractive lighting for safety and aesthetics, seating, cycle racks, more litter bins, disabled bays, and better access into Parkside Car Park for vehicles.

The borough council is hoping the improvements will act as a catalyst for wider regeneration and investment.

A planning application would need to be submitted, but if approved work could start in the first half of 2018.

Last month, Councillor Peter Smith, CBC’s cabinet member for planning and economic development, said: “These proposals are a really positive step for regeneration in the town centre and they show our continued commitment to improving the area.”

Work to Queens Square is expected to be completed by August 2017.

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