The Belford Development Trust has been updating plans to restore and update the High Street and vicinity, and the South entrance to the village . They have carried out a survey of residents to establish our needs and views. The plans and ideas were on display at the bank building last week.
They looked very interesting and show what can be done if a group of people develop plans “bottom up” rather than have them imposed “top down”. With other groups, they are now seeking funding to implement the ideas and to encourage new businesses to come into the village.
I thought one of the most interesting ideas was the removal of much modern street furniture, road markings and so on which encourage the separation of and lack of responsibility from different road users – essentially, drivers are more likely to ignore pedestrians. Many road safety markings can actually make roads less safe. And having a clean, harmonious relatively sign free environment looks better and makes people feel better. In Belford, it would contribute to the idea of building on the town’s heritage.
They looked very interesting and show what can be done if a group of people develop plans “bottom up” rather than have them imposed “top down”. With other groups, they are now seeking funding to implement the ideas and to encourage new businesses to come into the village.
I thought one of the most interesting ideas was the removal of much modern street furniture, road markings and so on which encourage the separation of and lack of responsibility from different road users – essentially, drivers are more likely to ignore pedestrians. Many road safety markings can actually make roads less safe. And having a clean, harmonious relatively sign free environment looks better and makes people feel better. In Belford, it would contribute to the idea of building on the town’s heritage.
4 comments:
I think I remember hearing once that there were three butchers in Belford at one time. So many small businesses have been closed in this village over the years and now we have to make do with one grocery store that is currently closed for refurb! I went in the tiny room they have set up in order to supply emergencies. I couldn't find what I wanted but came out with a packet of crumpets.
On the other hand, I hear the same store have put on free transport to the nearest supermarket for Belford residents. Good on them.
Crystal xx
I went and looked on Saturday and thought it was very interesting. The village has some good architecture and the main street has great potential, both aesthetically and as a business location in a busy and growing village. I am slightly biased living there (at least some of the time). If I was brave enough I'd do a shop there myself, not that I've the faintest idea how! Do you think a combination of food, drink and pictures (being my abiding interests) would sell?
The "naked road" idea - no street furniture and road markings - has worked very well in the Netherlands, and also apparently in another small UK village. A website link is http://www.brake.org.uk/index.php?p=932 that gives the detail.
ON, I would say so: but I'd probably rather be a customer than an owner!
There is an unfulfilled potential about Belford. A couple of new shops and a makeover could make a big change.
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