Fisherton Gateway and Station Forecourt plans in Salisbury

The projects have been made possible after the award of £9.4million from the government’s Future High Streets Fund.

This will go towards transforming the railway station forecourt to make it more accessible and attractive as well as the Fisherton Gateway which would see improvements to the road network and public spaces along South Western Road and Fisherton Street.

The third project on the list, Heritage Living, which is not being consulted on yet, proposes redeveloping a vacant listed building and creating apartments in unoccupied spaces above shops.

A public consultation has now been launched so residents and business in the city can have their their say on the proposals being put forward.

Bringing 'vitality' back to town centres

Speaking at Monday’s Salisbury City Council meeting the leader of Wiltshire Council Richard Clewer said: “Our number one priority looking at our market towns is how we help them transform. Salisbury is already well down this path.”

He said it was more about offering an “experience” adding: “It is about bringing some vitality back into the town centres in the evening as well as during the day.”

He urged for the project not be seen in isolation but as part of a “wider set of schemes”.

What are the plans?

Proposed works would see improvements to landscaping, street furniture, lighting as well as improved signage.

• Station Forecourt

In the Station Forecourt area there would be improvements to bus stops, better access for pedestrians and cyclists and bicycle parking.

The county council is also working with South Western Railway and Network Rail.

The roundabout on Mill Road would continue to be the entrance and exit to the car park. The right hand side of the forecourt would be taken up by a new bus interchange with three new bus shelters for more long distance services.

New bike hub and ten ebike docks, which would be delivered separately by South Western Rail ahead of the main scheme, as separate funding had been achieved for this.

There would be a shared use path providing improved access from Churchfields and Mill Road.

• Fisherton Gateway

Fisherton Street would also benefit from improved pedestrian areas and footways will be widened. As part of the proposals there would also be continuous footways at junctions providing a level crossing and giving pedestrians priority.

Options are also being proposed for the crossing on South Western Road – the first is to keep the existing one where it is bit increase its width while the second would see it relocated towards the station.

Changes are also being considered for parking on that road.

Carli van Niekerk, the major highways project engineer for Wiltshire Council, said: ““It is about the experience on the high street, the vibrancy and celebrating that and it’s about Salisbury as a tourist destination. It’s got such a rich offering filled with culture and heritage. It’s about enhancing that and bringing young people into the city and also supporting businesses to help them grow.”

What councillors said

The plans were welcomed by Cllr Jeremy Nettle who said it was "so exciting to see this project come to fruition". But he asked if improvements could be made to the north side of the station as well, which Cllr Clewer said was not in Wiltshire Council's control. 

During the meeting concerns were raised about moving bus stops and narrowing the road by widening the pavements as well as the impact on traffic and air quality.

But Cllr Clewer said the improvements would “significantly improve people’s ability to access the centre from the station.”

The need for investment to tidy up St Mark’s Roundabout was also highlighted by Cllr Mary Webb.

The proposals were also welcomed by Cllr Mark Mewse who said: “It is always good money being spent in Salisbury.”

While Cllr Brian Dalton said it was a “great scheme, long overdue and good for the city”.

Plea to consult residents

Mayor Caroline Corbin emphasised the importance of engaging with local residents. which was echoed by Cllr Paul Sample who urged Wiltshire Council to listen to the views of the local community during this process.

How to take part in the consultation

To complete the survey and view the proposals visit: wiltshire.gov.uk/fhsf-salisbury

Hard copies will be available at Bourne Hill Council Offices, Salisbury, Amesbury, Downton, Durrington, Salisbury and Wilton libraries.

The deadline to submit comments is 5pm on April 19. 

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “By sharing their views through the survey, local people have an opportunity to take an active part in how the city develops and enhances its reputation as a tourist destination for years to come. These projects are a great way of supporting our local communities and creating a more vibrant, diverse city as we look to encourage more people to stay longer and increase their spend in our beautiful city centre.”

Webinar events 

Online webinars are being held via Microsoft Teams on Wednesday March 16 at 11am and Monday 21 at 6pm. To register email Communications@wiltshire.gov.uk. People are also encouraged to submit questions in advance for the webinars via this email address.

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