Bringing cafe culture to Winchester
Spring has now officially sprung and making good use of the fine weather a new continental style café atmosphere has been created in Winchester.
Sturdy bollards are now raised every morning at the top end of The Square, so between 11am and 6pm there is a temporary pedestrianisation of this picturesque shopping location.
This measure was put in place following discussion between Winchester City Council, Winchester City Centre Partnership and local traders. The area between Café Monde and Jones the Bootmakers is reserved for pedestrian access only for most of the day, making browsing the shop windows and enjoying refreshments in the cafes a more pleasant experience.
Cllr George Beckett, leader of the council and portfolio holder for economy and tourism, remarked: "This exciting opportunity has arisen in direct response to the needs of local businesses.
"The City Council is working hard to promote economic prosperity in the city, and this will be another win for the specialist shopping areas of the city."
Louise Akers, manager of the popular wine bar in The Square the 'Slug and Lettuce' agreed.She said: "With Springtime now upon us, the closure of the road will satisfy the demand for socialising in the sun, without suffering the hazards of moving traffic or exhaust fumes.
"It will encourage people to linger in our delightful, historic city."
The council's economic development officer, Kate Crawford, is keen to hear public comment on the installation of the new bollards. The public response will help the council to assess whether the bollards should become a permanent feature after this initial trial period of up to 18 months.