A public engagement survey to develop Victoria Street in St Albans has seen a "very impressive response", with over 400 people participating ahead tomorrow's final drop-in session.

A collaboration between Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) and St Albans City and District Council (SADC), the new initiative aims to establish a "community vision" for enhancing the street.

Currently, it forms a vital walking route between St Albans City train station and the city centre while hosting a wide range of shops, cafés and pubs.

Victoria Street forms an essential route through the city.Victoria Street forms an essential route through the city. (Image: Google Maps) The early engagement process, which runs until Tuesday, November 12, has already included two in-person events in St Albans, where residents had the opportunity to share their ideas and feedback directly with the project team through interactive activities and discussion.

Although there are no specific plans yet, the feedback from the six-week process will help the councils understand the need for sustainable changes on Victoria Street and decide whether to move forward with the project.

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The survey results also act as a guide for the project team in setting community priorities for future designs.

Potential suggestions thus far have included more accessible pavements, planting greater trees and greenery.

Safety has also been highlighted including protected cycle routes to the station and places for pedestrians to cross.

More frequent bus services to a wider range of destinations have also been suggested.

Cllr Phil Bibby, executive member for highways & transport at HCC, said: “It’s been very encouraging to have had so many views provided to date and shows how important Victoria Street is to the residents and businesses of St Albans." 

The Cllr requested that "as many people as possible" respond even at the early stage of the development.

"If you haven’t completed the survey, I’d urge you to take part or come to the final drop-in session," he added.

"This is your chance to help shape what Victoria Street could look like in the future.”

Cllr Helen Campbell, chair of the public realm committee of SADC, said the feedback for the Victoria Street project is "very impressive" so far.

She said: "The stall set up at the Charter Market to promote the scheme also attracted much interest and I am sure there will be a good attendance at the drop-in event later in October.

The stall set up in Charter Market for the public consultation.The stall set up in Charter Market for the public consultation. (Image: St Albans City and District Council) “It shows that this project is causing considerable excitement and capturing the imagination of our residents. I urge those who have yet to give their views to do so and complete the survey.”

Overall, the council ensures that the project seeks to create a "sustainable, safe, and vibrant street" that benefits the entire community, supports local businesses and "boosts tourism".

The final drop-in session for the consultation takes places at the Marlborough Road Methodist Church Hall on Wednesday, October 30, 4pm to 7pm.

For more information and to participate in the survey by Tuesday, November 12, 2024 visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/VictoriaStreet.