NEW plans for a Southampton busy neighbourhood have been unveiled as a consultation for a controversial road scheme is now under way.

A number of measures could be put in place in Bedford Place in a bid to address anti-social behaviour in the area and improve the local street scene.

It comes as civic chiefs said they are working on plans to make the area "cleaner, tidier and more pedestrian friendly".

The proposals are expected to be outlined over the coming weeks, according to Southampton City Council.

The news comes as today the authority launched a consultation with businesses in Bedford Place to seek feedback about the current road closure.

As reported, the road was closed in August last year as part of a trial to allow more outdoor seating and ensure social distancing.

But while some welcomed the move, others said they lost the passing trade and called for the road to be reopened.

Bedford Place: Why is the road closure controversial? 

Plans to reopen Bedford Place

A two-week consultation with local businesses has now been launched as the Conservatives pledged to review the scheme and reopen the road.

It comes as they won control of the city council in this year's elections.

Opposition leader Cllr Satvir Kaur said Labour councillors believe the trial "should last until at least the end of the summer season".

Cllr Jeremy Moulton, deputy leader and cabinet member for growth, said: "We would like to thank all businesses in the Bedford Place area for their valuable feedback so far. With Covid-19 restrictions continuing to ease and businesses now in a position to trade with fewer constraints, this is a sensible time to take stock, review the scheme and make adjustments as required. We’re keen to hear from as many businesses on Bedford Place as possible and I would encourage anyone running a business on this particular road to share their views by taking part in our survey.”

The news comes as earlier this months a number of petitions were launched asking the council not to reopen the road.

Bedford Place: Petition launched

Calls to reopen Bedford Place

Cllr Kaur said: "After initially saying they would reopen Bedford Place immediately, we’re pleased the new Conservative Council have rowed back and are now listening to Labour’s call to consult before any changes are made. However, we are disappointed that they are not reaching out to residents as well. Local Labour Councillors have been actively listening to both local businesses and residents, and based on feedback we have received so far, we believe this trial should last until at least the end of the summer season.”

The council confirmed that the pedestrianisation will continue to be trialled on Carlton Place and Lower Banister Street with a final decision regarding these roads expected to be made later in the year.

The authority said businesses will receive further details from the council in due course and will have the opportunity to discuss the scheme with council staff should they wish to.