Views sought on plans to pedestrianise Leamington high street

An eight-week consultation exercise on plans to transform the Parade is open until 28 July



Residents and businesses are being asked for their views on the potential pedestrianisation of the Parade in Leamington Spa.

The Leamington Transformation Board, made up of representatives from local authorities, launched an eight-week consultation exercise on the plans on Monday.

Under the Parade Masterplan, the town's high street could be turned into a traffic-free space, with buses rerouted to alternative spots and delivery vehicles permitted limited access.

A new town square next to the Town Hall could also be created, offering space for community events, markets and performances, Warwickshire County Council added.

The Leamington Transformation Board, which includes members of the county council, Warwick District Council, and Royal Leamington Spa Town Council, is consulting until 28 July.

People interested in providing their views on the plans are being encouraged to respond to an online survey., external

Mark Lee, board chairman, said there was "huge potential" to transform the Parade into an "incredible space" for town residents, visitors and businesses.

He said he wanted to ensure the Parade became the centre of a "vibrant and economically successful town" in an age where some high streets were going through change and decline.

"We envisage a whole area coming to life with hospitality venues spilling into the newly created space and families able to enjoy the vibrancy of the town, knowing their children can play safely nearby," he added.

I have a sneaky suspicion the so-called "Leamington Transformation Board" has made its decision already and the eight-week consultation exercise is merely an exercise in window dressing.