THOUSANDS of pounds could soon be made available to create a piece of public art on a run-down shopping arcade.
Over ten years ago the Town Centre Enhancement Scheme was launched and over a million pounds poured in to the repairing pavements, planting trees and enhancing lighting on The Broadway high street in Debden.
After the work was completed, £22,000 was left over.
Despite the district council having provided funding for the scheme, Essex County Council has authority over roads and highways and the remaining sum could not be released until the repairs were approved by them.
Recently, Essex County Council told Epping Forest District council officer that they will be able to sign-off the work in early December.
Council officers will first have to assess if any urgent repairs need making before traders are consulted on how the money should be used.
Dave Stannard, chairman of the Debden Town Centre Partnership, said: “Traders are very frustrated that it has all taken so long.
“We will have to discuss what work we want to be done, but we would have to see how it can be used to encourage the traders and help them in any way they can.
He said that options on the table included a large public artwork to brighten The Broadway, a website advertising offers available in businesses and a new set of signs to make the number of parking spaces available clear.
Geraldine Wilson, who owns Geraldine’s Hair Fashions on The Broadway, said: “I am not sure I would want to see them spend loads of money on a piece of public art.
“I think that there might be better ways to help the traders down here out, like giving us a grant to brighten up the front of our shops a bit.”
Peter Sparks, owner of P.A Sparks and Sons grocers said: “I think the main concern of traders down here is that people can’t pull up outside the shops here and pop in quickly.
“I think that they should spend the money on taking out some of the bollards along the side of The Broadway and painting some parking spaces.”
Councillor John Knapman was involved in organizing the regeneration scheme at the outset.
He said: “This money should be allocated to the Broadway to do something that makes a difference.
“I am in support of a piece of public art being put up. It is an original way to use the money and could make a big difference to how people feel about the area.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel