Exciting changes are underway in Ashbourne as a £15.9m project aims to tackle traffic issues and enhance the town’s charm
Ashbourne: Big changes are happening in this Derbyshire town. The council has kicked off a major redevelopment project to tackle long-standing traffic problems. They’re calling it the Ashbourne Reborn program, and it’s backed by a hefty £15.9 million investment.
This project is all about making the town more pedestrian-friendly. The council believes these upgrades will breathe new life into the town centre, making it a vibrant place for everyone. They’re planning to widen pavements and improve crossings, plus revamp public spaces like Market Place and Victoria Square.
The funding comes from a mix of government support and local contributions. It’s great to see the community coming together for this. The aim is to create spaces that can host events like StreetFest and the lantern parade, which sounds like a lot of fun!
Roadworks are set to start on Dig Street soon, but don’t worry—pedestrian access will still be available. Local businesses will remain open, so it’s a good time to support your favorite shops and cafes while the work is going on.
There’s also another project in the works called The Link Community Hub, led by the Ashbourne Methodist Church. They’re transforming their buildings to create a space for events, flexible work, and affordable visitor accommodation. It’s all about bringing the community together.
Councillor Simon Spencer is excited about the improvements. He acknowledges there might be some inconvenience during the construction but assures everyone that the end result will be worth it. They’ll even pause work for the Royal Shrovetide football game, so that’s a plus!
The council is also looking at ways to improve air quality in Ashbourne. They recently asked residents for their thoughts on a clean air charging zone, which has sparked quite a bit of debate. Some folks are on board, while others are not so keen.
