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Councillors will consider proposals for a highways and public realm improvement scheme in New Ferry at the next meeting of the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee on 8 July.
According to the Wirral View, the report asks members to consider options for improvement for Bebington Road, forming part of a wider regeneration programme for New Ferry.
Bebington Road is currently pedestrianised and has been for around 40 years, but the existing pavement needs some TLC. There has been consultation over several years, which has shown support for keeping the road how it is and delivering improvements. The road does allow nearby businesses to load and unload, but the council has been considering number plate recognition services due to an increasing number of unwarranted loading and unloading incidents.
At the meeting, councillors will be asked to consider three design options for the regeneration plans. This is all outlined in the report, which outlines each option and its potential effects.
Councillors will consider consultation feedback alongside factors including cost, deliverability, construction timescales, future maintenance requirements and the council's overall financial position in their decision.
Each option includes new planting, seating, cycle parking, CCTV cameras, space for community events and markets, and measures to stop cars using Bebington Road to cut through to maintain the pedestrianised aspect of the road.
Proposed improvements also extend to Toll Bar Square, where plans include a flexible public space designed to support community events.
Funding comes mainly from the Local Regeneration Fund, with an approved budget of £5.5 million. While all options can be delivered within the approved budget, they differ in their long-term maintenance and whole-life cost implications.
Obviously, any option will disrupt businesses, residents and visitors. Still, the report notes measures to minimise these impacts and keep the road accessible would be put in place.
