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Damien Egan: ‘It is sad to see what has happened to Kingswood High Street’
The MP for Bristol North East hopes to be able to help revitalise Kingswood High Street saying that it is “sad to see what has happened” to the area in which he grew up in “after years of neglect”.
Damien Egan recently hosted a public event to discuss the regeneration of the road which included a walkabout with council officers.
Ideas for the High Street and Regent Street from residents included a greater variety of shops, and more green space and community events as well as celebrating the area’s heritage.
Egan said: “It was great to meet with Kingswood residents to hear their views about our High Street.
“When I was growing up, Kingswood High Street used to be a real destination, where you’d go for a day out.
“After years of neglect, it is sad to see what has happened really, but it is encouraging to see after so many years of delay that progress is starting to be made.”.
Damien Egan has urged anyone who has any suggestions for future roundtable topics to contact his office – photo: Labour Party
South Gloucestershire Council’s plans to transform Kingswood High Street hope to “make it more vibrant, attractive and accessible to all”.
The new plan – approved and funded by the West of England Combined Authority – replaced an earlier pedestrianisation proposal put forward in the Kingswood Masterplan which was rejected by local people at consultation.
The new plan includes improvements to shop fronts, physical improvements to Regent Street, introducing plants and greenery, and creating space for markets and events.
Working with Kings Chase Shopping Centre, the council is supporting a series of ‘Sunday Social’ markets from October which hope to bring people into Kingswood.
Main photo: Ed Whyman
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