COUNCIL chiefs are pressing ahead with plans to upgrade Stretford town centre - and they want to hear residents' views.

The upgrade - known as the Stretford Masterplan - aims to give a facelift to the layout of the town..

The proposals include: • The closure of three of the four existing subways underneath Chester Road, Kingsway and Edge Lane.

• The introduction of new surface level pedestrian crossing facilities.

• The creation of an additional right turn lane on Chester Road for vehicles turning into Edge Lane.

• Upgraded traffic signals and street lighting.

• Improvements to the Stretford Mall entrance area off the Chester Road/Edge Lane junction.

• The provision of new landscaped areas and public green space in locations currently occupied by the subways and their accesses.

As part of the scheme it is also proposed to reduce the speed limit on Chester Road from 40mph to 30mph.

Town hall bosses are urging residents, businesses, and other interested parties to 'have their say' as part of the consultation on the Phase 1 Stretford public realm improvements.

Consultation Boards and members of the Design Team will available at Stretford Mall adjacent to the telephone shop EE on July 21 and 22 from 10am to 4.30pm and on July 23 between 10.30am and 2pm.

The emerging designs have been prepared in consultation with the Stretford Working Group and Stretford Panel which bring together councillors, council officers, businesses and representatives of community groups.

The chairman of the Stretford Working Group and Stretford Panel, Cllr John Reilly, said: “Significant progress continues to be made in the successful regeneration of Stretford Town Centre, which is a key priority for Trafford Council. "The delivery of the phase one public realm improvements will act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of Stretford supporting future investment that will enable the town centre to meet its full potential.

"I would encourage as many people as possible to take the time to find out more and let us have their comments."

The phase 1 Stretford public realm improvement plans will also be available under the Stretford Masterplan section on the Stretford Town Centre Website from July 22 - www.stretfordtowncentre.org.uk.

If you cannot attend the drop in sessions please feedback any comments by July 29 to the project team. By Email: Mark.Ford@amey.co.uk, telephone: 0151 498 6659 or by letter: Amey, Unit 6, Matchworks, 142 Speke Road, Liverpool L19 2PH.