A VISION of the future, aimed at giving Dunstable a town centre fit for the 21st century, has cleared a vital hurdle.
Ambitious ideas which could transform the heart of the town are highlighted in the Dunstable town centre masterplan.
Now the planning guidance has won the backing of Central Beds Council’s executive committee.
The masterplan sets out far-reaching concepts about how the area could be developed over the next 15 years, in three phases.
If developers take up those ideas, major changes could be on the way for the town centre.
The masterplan has not yet been formally adopted as part of the local development framework.
But it can be used now as ‘interim technical guidance’ for planners and developers.
However, there is flexibility – it is not a blueprint and bricks and mortar redevelopments could differ from ideas shown in the masterplan.
The town centre has been hit hard by a number of shop closures.
But lately, a wave of new businesses has brought cautious optimism in its wake.
Supporters of the masterplan view the planning guidance as key to regeneration hopes.
Councillor Ken Matthews said: “Dunstable is in need of rejuvenation and by providing a masterplan for the town, we will be able to guide any future developers who are looking to regenerate and invest.
“This is a big step for Dunstable and one that could have a very positive outcome for the town in years to come.
“We now need to focus our attention on the implementation of the plan and securing the levels of investment needed to turn around the fortunes of Dunstable for all its residents, visitors and businesses.”
Main ideas include:
> Redevelopment of The Quadrant shopping centre to give a “significant” boost to retail floor space.
> A “shopping street” could form pedestrian links between Grove House Gardens and Priory Gardens and incorporate an extension for ASDA.
> Two possible multi-storey car parks.
> A replacement library and a cinema.
> Building a new medical centre and ambulance station on the magistrates’ court/ambulance station site.
> New housing.
> Redevelopment of council-owned shops in Ashton Square. That could involve moving shopkeepers to the revamped retail ‘core’ of the town centre.
> Moving pedestrian crossings, improving access by public transport, providing better walking and cycling routes and easing congestion.
A report to the committee said any potential compulsory purchase of land for developments would be “a last resort”.
Public consultation has already taken place on the masterplan and the council says that feedback has been taken into consideration.