EARLSDON residents will be asked to have a say on plans for Coventry’s first ‘liveable’ neighbourhood, which aims to encourage more walking and cycling in the area.
The liveable neighbourhood aims to improve people’s health and well-being as well as reduce vehicles in the streets while also allowing easy access to homes, businesses and for those with mobility issues.
The council received a grant from West Midlands Combined Authority which will allow them to hold a public meeting with Earlsdon residents.
The meeting will outline the idea, highlight local issues and begin to discuss possible solutions.
Liveable neighbourhoods usually group residential streets together around facilities such as schools, shops and surgeries, and are bordered by main roads.
Funding to improve cycle routes connecting Earlsdon and South Coventry to the rail station has been secured, with new crossings being provided for people and cyclists on Albany Road and Spencer Avenue, and improving access to entrances to Spencer Park.
The council’s cabinet member for city services, Coun Patricia Hetherton said: “Our plans for the city’s first liveable neighbourhood supports our ambition to create better conditions for walking and cycling so that people rely less on their cars, especially for short car journeys.
“But we know that the most successful liveable neighbourhoods are created with local people, who have the chance to be clear on the issues as well as being part of developing the solutions – and that’s why I hope to see lots of people at the first meeting next month.
“By looking at how road space is used, we believe we can create vibrant and accessible residential areas – but all proposals will be developed in collaboration with local communities every step of the way and I hope this is the start of close working that will see spaces co-designed.”
