Issue - meetings

Bromley Town ward

The report provided an update on the Bromley town centre improvement scheme, setting out the progress made to date and summarising the issues affecting the delivery of the reflective canopies and commercial units and recommended a new approach for the completion of the scheme.

In order to increase footfall in the town centre, Councillor Bear suggested a monthly themed fayre could be held e.g. antiques, local foods, crafts etc.  She also suggested that consideration be given to provide some sort of seating (stone mushrooms perhaps) around the street theatre area to make it more of a feature.

Councillor Michael agreed with Ward Members in regard to the introduction of two commercial units on the High Street. After the COVID-19 pandemic had passed, it was likely there would be more empty retail units on the High Street, given the near-shutdown of the retail sector and the fact that some retailers had already collapsed e.g. Laura Ashley.  She hoped this was not the case and that retail would quickly bounce back but she was not convinced that two extra commercial units were required at this point. 

Councillor Michael questioned the relevance and need for two “eye-catching” reflective canopies.  While she had no problem with a sculptural “statement piece” for Bromley Town Centre in principle, she requested that consideration be given to the overall design to ensure that it was in keeping with the area.

The report was noted and comments provided to Members of the Executive Committee.