Four years on since I wrote the article below and St Albans still doesn't have a City Centre Vision.
The draft Local Plan makes reference to the concept but there are as yet no clear policies. Of course, at present, there is no money but that should not stop the articulation of ambitions.
I have a view and below is my wish list. It won't suit everyone but let's have the debate and not just allow there to be arbitrary development that fails to enhance the city centre.
Proposals for a City Centre Plan (22/03/24):
A plan with targets and timeframes.
Urban tree planting.
Convert Market Cross into a piazza, with seating around the edge, planting and a water feature (restore Isabella Worley’s Fountain, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, establishing it as a symbol of restitution for Britain’s role in the institution of slavery and its abolition).
Creation of a policy to replace the wheelie bins in the ‘historic alleyways’ with fixed, aesthetically designed, containers.
Programme of new signage and information panels to celebrate St Albans’ heritage.
Creation of a long-term programme in co-operation with HCC to manage traffic and increase pedestrianisation (especially in relation to the Cathedral Quarter, Waddington Road, and St Peters Street roundabout.
Remodelling of Victoria Street to reflect its importance as an entry to St Albans from the railway station and with a shared use element to connect The Maltings with Jubilee Square.
A programme of planting in Drovers’ Way and aesthetically remodelling
the exterior of the car park (cf. examples from Switzerland et al).
Ensure that any City Centre Plan incorporates a clear drive towards sustainability.
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