Thames Ditton - Pedestrian Zone trial

Overview

Proposed new pedestrian zone in Thames Ditton High Street 

In September 2020 an online questionnaire was set up for residents and businesses to complete regarding a proposed trial pedestrian zone in the High Street. We wanted to assess whether there would be support for a trial. 

Outcome of survey

• A total of 392 responses were received, including 350 residents, 14 local business owners and 9 employees of local businesses. 
• 49% of residents were supportive of the proposed pedestrian area on a full-time basis.
• 13% of respondents were supportive of the scheme to be implemented on a part-time basis.
• 38% of respondents were opposed to the scheme.
• There was no consensus on the days or times of operation of the scheme.

Surrey Highways officers reviewed the consultation results with local Divisional and Ward Members.  The appetite within the local community to try something new or different was acknowledged.  It was also agreed that it was important to achieve consensus within the local business community before any permanent change could be promoted.

Proposal

To this end, we have decided to ask the business community only to have their say on whether to hold a weekend only pedestrian zone as a trial operating from:

• Lime Tree Square at the junction of the High Street with Ashley Road
• Saturday – Sunday 10am – 4pm (dates to be confirmed, within July to September)
• Option to include a Friday may be considered subject to support

The pedestrian zone will be designed using temporary equipment, so that the zone could be modified, and removed quickly between the operative times. 

Full vehicle access along the High Street would be maintained at all times.  Please note that Elmbridge Borough Council has now restored the charges in the Ashley Road car park and has indicated that these charges will remain in place during the trial weekend.

We would be grateful to hear your views as to whether you would support this trial and whether you have any other feedback in relation to this scheme.  

Please complete the short questionnaire plus any additional comments online by 7 May 2021. 

The comments received will be analysed and considered before a decision is made on how to proceed.  Should the scheme be supported, dates and times of the trial will be announced.

Thank you in advance for your participation.