The project involves constructing a shared space project in Hamilton Road, Felixstowe from the junction with York Road southbound to the junction with Orwell Road.  The project will involve environmental enhancement and public realm improvements.  A further expected benefit of this project will be a reduction in the number of injury accidents along this road.

This project will link to and compliment the adjacent Bent Hill project.

Project Scope

The project will involve highway works resulting in environmental and public safety improvements; this in turn will contribute to the overall regeneration of the Felixstowe central shopping area.

Aims

To improve Felixstowe's main shopping area to give priority to pedestrians, and to improve the overall public realm of Hamilton Road.

Outcomes

Improved public realm in Felixstowe Town Centre.

Status

Funding for 2008/09 £50,000

Funding for 2009/10 £100,000

Funding for 2010/11 £300,000

Status as at 30 September 2008:

• Initial work started.

Status as at 31 December 2008:

• Establishment of governance arrangements, officer working group and project board.
• Preliminary surveys carried out.

• Project concept work now to be carried out early 2009.

Status as at 31 March 2009:

• Preliminary design work started on scheme following approval of concept from Project Board late March 2008.
• Work also started on design of associated car park signage scheme.

Status as at 30 June 2009:

• Project concept work completed.
• Mandate agreed with project board for scheme to be shared spare, including conceptual design work.
• Preparatory work for public consultation (due in July 2009)

Status as at 30 September 2009:

• Public consultation held in July 2009 with 81.8% of respondents to the consultation believing that the scheme would make their trips to Hamilton Road a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• Suveying carried out
• Detailed design work underway and draft designs being prepared for presentation to project board in November 2009.

Status as at 31 Decembere 2009:

• Final design approved by project board in November 2009.
• Final design approved by SCC Director of Environment and Transport and Portfolio Holder for Planning and Transport.
• Construction programme amended following consultation with Chamber of Trade and Felixstowe Town Council.
• Works and materials order placed with SHC, SCC's partner contractors.

Status as at 31 March 2010:

• Construction commenced in January 2010.

Status as at 30 June 2010:

• Construction continues.

 Status as at 30 September 2010:

• Shared Space project board agreed the design objectives to deliver the scheme by the end of the financial year for the missing link between Orwell Road and Wolsey Gardens.
• Straight section of Hamilton Road now complete.
• Junctions are currently being worked on.
• The last pieces of street furniture are to be installed imminently.
• Construction programme has slipped slightly but is due for completion in November 2010.

Suffolk County Council have regular updates on their website - click here to link through for further information.