Vision for Market Square

12:01am Thursday 14th August 2008

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A GRAND square to rival any in the magnificent cities of Europe is the aim of an international design competition launched today to transform the neglected public heart of Salisbury.

Promoters hope the successful £3m renaissance of the medieval Market Place and Guildhall square will provide a vibrant, welcoming place for residents and visitors while attracting new businesses and benefiting existing ones.

It is also hoped the contest will help the city to prosper in competition with other regional centres such as Southampton, Winchester, Basingstoke and Bournemouth.

Councillor Peter Edge, Portfolio Holder for economic development and tourism at Salisbury District Council, said the winning design would play a crucial role in helping the city prosper and grow.

He said: "The aim is to create a grand square of the highest quality and design, a beautiful cosmopolitan space within the core of our medieval city where families and friends can linger in inspirational surroundings.

"This regeneration is long overdue as the Market Place and Guildhall square have been neglected for years, with a shabby feel on non-market days and woefully under utilised.

"Worse, one of Western Europe's largest medieval public spaces is home to 69 car parking spaces, a decision made in an environmentally indifferent era when the needs of the motor vehicle were given priority over pedestrians.

What we envisage is a European-style café culture, with the medieval setting complemented by sensitive landscaping."

• For an in-depth report see the August 14 edition of the Salisbury Journal