Ryde is to see a new town square. Read more from the council. Ed
As part of an ongoing project to improve the public realm in Ryde, a new town square will be built in October.
The square will be laid down at the junction of the High Street and John Street, directly outside Alexander’s Fish and Chip Shop and Hobbs the Jewellers and extending back to Duffets Stores.
The new square would include benches and trees and, for the first time, would also be an area where a Christmas tree can be put up during the festive period.
Construction work is due to get underway on 11 October and will take between 6 – 8 weeks to complete.
Enhancing the High Street
Isle of Wight Council Cabinet member responsible for the environment Edward Giles said “Once finished, the town square will enhance the High Street and also provide an area for shoppers to sit down and enjoy their time.
“It will also stop the issue of cars using John Street to go into the High Street in the evenings.
“The designs have been drawn up in consultation with Ryde Business Association and Ryde Town Council as well as the local councillors. All agree it will be a very welcome facility once built in time for Christmas this year”
Funded by Tesco
The square has been funded by money provided by Tesco as part of the firm’s previous planning application to rebuild its superstore on the outskirts of the town.
Although a number parking spaces will be removed to accommodate the square, the council is currently finalising plans to install additional car parking spaces along Garfield Road. These plans will be publicised for consultation in the local media over the next few weeks.
Image: Draft proposal which result in minor amendments
