Residents and businesses in Cheltenham will get their first glimpse of how the refreshed High Street will look, when an exhibition goes live this weekend.

From 11.30am until 2.30pm on Saturday 24th March, the public can see drawings and chat to project sponsor, Tracey Crews, when plans go on show in the Regent Arcade.

The exhibition will run alongside the Cheltenham Plan consultation.

Tracey Crews, director for planning at the council, said: "This is a great opportunity for people to come and see the designs for the High Street and comment on the Cheltenham Plan, which will guide development in the borough up to 2031. I hope that people come along and take the opportunity to ask questions.''

Plans will reveal a transformed High Street, which will see the existing mix of concrete and tarmac replaced with natural stone paving, new seating, trees and a performance space. The new paving will be complemented by raised beds, planted with large trees and shrubs and incorporating new seating and other street furniture.

Councillor Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for safety and development, said: "Together with the county council and our partners, we are committed to enhancing the attractiveness of Cheltenham town centre. This will boost the town's economic vitality, making it the place of choice for new businesses and investors. Importantly, we want to create a space which can be enjoyed by all those who live, work and visit here. I hope residents and visitors will come along on Saturday to see the designs.''

The improvements - due to begin in May for completion in September - will initially be focussed on the High Street between Rodney Road and Cambray Place and plans are linked as closely as possible to the opening of the new John Lewis store later in the year.

Investment of £725,000 has been agreed by Cheltenham Borough Council and Gloucestershire County Council, with some additional financial support being provided by the European Structural and Investment Fund.

Keep up to date with the High Street improvements at www.cheltenham.gov.uk/high-street-refresh 

Illustrations: Copyright Cheltenham Borough Council 2018.