The historic centre of Bawtry necessarily serves as a shared vehicular/pedestrian space. The car park is essential for the town’s viability, but its presence detracts from the attractiveness of the central conservation area. This situation needs improving. The town is rich in history and the aim is also to bring that rich history alive again. A Heritage Trail is being created, which includes the market cross on Market Hill. This ancient monument will be restored and protected and given ‘pride of place’ within its environment so that it can be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike.
The Town Council is investing circa £150k to carry out the essential safety improvement works to Market Hill but the lack of alternative parking, together with financial constraints, limit what is achievable at this time. However, there is an aspiration to include as many “enhancement” type aspects as possible, to improve the ‘non car user’ experience, if funding for these additional works can be found
What we'll deliver:
- Restore, and protect, the market cross by provision of a surrounding paved area with seating
- Carry out minor works to improve pedestrian safety as far as possible
- Provide seating and planters at suitable locations to improve the general ambience for pedestrians
- Provide a covered cycle parking area
- Include alternative materials (type & colour) to enhance the overall appearance
- Improved quality and co-ordinated street & car park furniture
Why it's a great idea:
Bawtry is a small, attractive, historic market town but is in much need of some rejuvenation as evidenced by residents in the emerging Neighbourhood Development Plan. The proposals for the central Market Hill area are considered to be a good start. All parties within the town are now working together to bring about the much needed changes. This includes the Town Council, Residents Group, Retailers Association, Heritage Group as well as some of the major landlords.
These are difficult, but exciting, times and the aim is to improve the vitality of the town for the benefit of everyone who has an interest in Bawtry. Many people are now working extremely hard, on a voluntary basis, to make things happen. The Town Council has limited finances and so must rely on external support wherever possible. As such, any financial contributions to help achieve these aspirations would be welcomed and your support will help shape a better outcome for the town
Steps to get it done:
- Funding needs to be known by mid 2020 to enable design works to be completed
- The BTC Market Hill Improvement scheme will be carried out in Spring 2021
The aim is for the Market Hill scheme to be completed by mid 2021
