Yesterday I met up with the Streets for People Working Group to assess the physical improvements that have been made near Worcester Park Station and Green Lane.
Some of the improvements included:
- Removal of guard railing around Worcester Park Station- much needed
- Improved street lighting – removal of orange lighting to white lighting – it now feels safer and there are less shadows
- Improved paving – the area near Worcester Park station now has a lovely sandstone coloured paving, making the area feel brighter
- Improved paving along desire line access to the station
- Improved crossing access for pedestrians
- New seating – increasing capacity and providing comfortable seating
- Installation of trees – in years to come will provide shade, improve air quality and provide a relaxing element to the space
Overall the physical improvements have been a success, but some future improvements (subject to funding) such as a holistic town centre urban design treatment could include:
- Removal of guard railing and consolidate signage- there is a lot!
- Improved seating with backs and arm rests
- Pedestrian level white street lighting where appropriate
- A greening of the area, perhaps to include more trees, small planters with sustainable, maintenance free planting
- Sandstone coloured paving – durable and easy to clean
- More informal clutter free crossing points like the crossings in Kings road
- Grants/loans made available to improve shop fronts
Please see my flickr page for further improvements which could be made in the local area.