The Government-funded work so far has focused on the pedestrianised section of King Street between Broadway and Keys Place, which now has a new dedicated space along the centre of the route specifically for people who prefer to cycle, with areas either side of this for those who prefer to walk.
These dedicated cycle and walking areas have visibly different surface types and obvious boundaries. The works had been due to be completed this autumn but have finished ahead of time.
Along with the new bespoke paving, the spaces outside the existing businesses along this section of King Street have also been reconfigured allowing them if they wish to introduce café style seating subject to the relevant licenses and permissions.
Councillor Geoff Hill, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport and Customer Service Centre, said: “Creating a cleaner and greener borough supporting our local economy, and enabling our residents to live healthier lives, are two of the aims in our Council Plan.
“These works have been designed to do just that, improving the choices for residents to visit Maidenhead town centre in a sustainable way, while also supporting local businesses for a prosperous and vibrant Maidenhead.”
The final design of the scheme was shaped following extensive research carried out by the council along this section of King Street as well as feedback from stakeholder forums including walking, cycling, disability and inclusion groups.
The council also held a series of workshop evenings with town centre businesses whose input was invaluable.
The developers and landowners in adjacent sites were also involved in this engagement.
The work for this section of King Street was funded by the Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
Alison Webster, Chief Executive Officer at Berkshire LEP, said: “The LEP has a strong track record in supporting sustainable transport packages as part of our ambition to reduce congestion and provide improved access to local employment, retail, and services. We’re delighted to have provided funding from the Government’s Local Growth Fund to this scheme which will encourage people to visit the town centre in a sustainable way, supporting local businesses and contributing to a prosperous and vibrant Maidenhead.”