RESIDENTS have been asked for their opinion on proposals to enhance an existing town centre road closure.

Using funding gained in a successful bid to the Government's Active Travel Fund, Hampshire County Council has proposed enhancements to the road closure in the town centre of Eastleigh on High Street, Market Street and Wells Place.

The proposals are aimed at also improving the area for walking and cycling and will include new planters and removable bollards to replace the red and white barriers currently used to block the roads to vehicles.

Subject to feedback, it is proposed that the enhancement scheme will be in place for 18 months.

It will also be constantly monitored to measure walking and cycling levels and impacts on vehicular traffic in the town centre.

Councillor Rob Humby, Deputy Leader of Hampshire County Council and Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment, said: “The Coronavirus pandemic has changed travel patterns and behaviour, and many people are cycling and walking more.

"This is a critical time to consider changes to our roads to support a prosperous, healthy and green recovery from Covid-19 - making it easier for people to sustain healthier lifestyles, whilst supporting local businesses, and helping to meet the County Council’s carbon reduction targets as part of our Climate Change Strategy.”

An online survey is now being conducted to seek feedback on the plans and will be available on the county council's website until March 21.

The County Council says it would like to install measures that the community will "support and will use". and says feedback is "vital".

Councillor Humby added: “I would encourage people to have their say on these ideas now, to ensure we have a good measure of local opinion.”

Those who require a paper copy of the survey are asked to contact: 0370 779 7200.