£2m environmental improvements planned

12.06.39pm GMT Thu 17th Jan 2008

Major environmental improvements are targeted for five areas of the borough.

Richmond Council's Cabinet is being recommended to approve spending of £2 million on the schemes over the next three years at its meeting on January 14. Shopping parades and other public spaces have been identified as the priorities for the five areas: Castelnau; Mortlake; Ham; the Hampton Nurserylands; and Heathfield. These have been identified in the Community Plan as being the borough's five areas of relative deprivation.

Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Martin Elengorn, said: "The proposed spending is intended to upgrade the physical environment in these parts of the borough and improve the quality of life of local residents. Tired shopping areas will be revitalised and the general street scene improved. The schemes range from upgrading street furniture and lighting to tree planting and new paving. They will have a significant impact."

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Stephen Knight, commented: "They represent further investment in local shopping parades and provide the opportunity to improve safety and access for disabled people. As with all Council projects of this kind, sustainability is vital. And these schemes will promote greener modes of travel by improving and increasing facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. There will be thorough public consultation to ensure that the views of all sections of the community are taken into account."