Work is under way to improve Kingswood town centre.
The first phase will focus on Regent Street, where repair and restoration will be carried out to 37 shopfronts and seven upper facades, as well as the public toilets on Moravian Road.
The work will be carried out by local contractors Mobius, who have opened a site information office at 40 Regent Street for the duration of the project.
The improvements were informed by public feedback and are designed to enhance the character of the town centre, creating a more welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors.
Work to shopfronts and buildings will include:
• removal of signboards/installation of new painted timber fascia signboards with painted graphics
• new light fixtures
• joinery and leadwork repairs
• installation of awnings
• repairs and redecoration to upper floors.
In the autumn, there will upgrades to walkways, new seating and planting, improved wayfinding, a new bus stop and new public art and murals.
Refurbishment of the Kingswood clock tower will also take place, including installing new lighting, plus cleaning and repairs. The town centre improvements are funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, through the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Investment Fund.
To the dismay of shoppers who have come to love the colourful knitted toppers, the two post boxes in Kings Chase Square have been removed. A council spokesman said Royal Mail was given the opportunity to retain or relocate a post box within the revamped Kings Chase square but had decided not to do so.
However, the spokesman added: “Looking ahead, a post box will return to Kings Chase Square as part of the regeneration proposals. While it will not be operational for posting mail, it will continue to provide a familiar focal point for the area and a home for the much-loved community-created post box toppers.”
Kingswood Park is also currently undergoing a major transformation after securing £2.67 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund (funding for the overall project £3.36m). A wide range of improvements will make the park more welcoming, accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
The work includes creating a new and more inclusive play area, new ramps and improved pathways, upgrades to the amphitheatre with improved seating and a larger accessible performance space, plus new visitor facilities such as a mobile café, modern toilets and a drinking water station. Protecting the park’s heritage, restoration is also planned for its historic gates and high street railings, along with enhancements to the formal garden.
Running alongside these physical improvements is a programme of free events and health and wellbeing activitiesr.
Cabinet councillor Chris Willmore, said: “These improvements mark an important step in the regeneration of Kingswood town centre. We have been guided by the feedback gathered during public engagement and by improving shopfronts and public spaces, we are helping to create a more attractive, welcoming and vibrant town centre that local people can be proud of. :The improvements will support local businesses, enhance the experience for visitors and residents, and help strengthen Kingswood’s identity for the future.”
