The Executive Member for Business and Economy, Councillor E. Humphreys reminded the Executive that it had included a scheme within the Council’s Capital Programme for public realm improvements within Horley town centre. The report before the Executive sought approval for the scope of the third phase of those works and to give authority to appoint Surrey County Council to deliver, procure and manage the works.
It was emphasised that this final phase of the improvement works would be concentrated in the pedestrian precinct in the town’s High Street. The aim was to create an attractive, safe and accessible space, at the heart of the town centre, which could be used for a range of activities, including events, outside eating and drinking and places for people to meet and to relax.
The works would include resurfacing, changes to lighting, new street furniture, better parking for the disabled and improved loading facilities.
The improvements would help to enhance the vitality and vibrancy of the town centre; encouraging people to stay longer and to spend more; improving their perception of the area; and acting as a catalyst for new business investment.
Councillor Humphreys indicated that the works would be funded by £530,000 from the Council’s Capital Programme and an additional £100,000 from Surrey County Council’s Section 106 developer contributions.
RESOLVED that:
(i) the scope of the third phase of public realm improvements in Horley town centre (option 1) as set out in the Executive’s report be approved;
(ii) the Head of Places and Planning be authorised to appoint Surrey County Council to design, procure and manage the improvements within the agreed budget; and (iii) the Head of Places and Planning be authorised, in consultation with the Executive Member for Business & Economy, to make any changes to the scope of the improvements and to the procurement, design and management of the works as necessary without exceeding the agreed budget. Reasons for decision: To enhance the pedestrian precinct of the High Street in Horley to create a high quality, flexible and attractive streetscape. Alternative options: Design and deliver a scaled back scheme with a smaller scope of works or to a lower quality or defer the delivery of public realm improvements in Horley.
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