Business leaders including Milton Keynes & North Bucks Chamber of Comerce have welcomed the move, which they say will enhance an important gateway to the city.
Chamber chief executive Rita Spada (pictured) said the upgrade work was long overdue but welcome in advance of the scheduled opening next year of Network Rail’s new national headquarters next to the station.
The work is set to start in mid-August. The proposed scheme will provide safer access for pedestrians and cyclists travelling to and from the station and aims to reduce queues from taxis, cars and buses.
The plans include:
- New dedicated pick up/drop off area;
- Complete resurfacing of carriageways;
- Separate facilities for hackney carriage taxis;
- Enhanced pedestrian access;
- New, improved and additional cycle shelters;
- Dedicated bus stop area with new bus shelters.
Cllr John Bint, Cabinet member with responsibility for Transport, said: “I am delighted that these much needed improvement works to Station Square are soon to start. Station Square is for many a first impression for visitors, therefore it is crucial to incorporate a fit for purpose gateway providing easy access to the city and beyond.
“We will endeavour to minimise any disruption during the construction period, however it is inevitable that some disruption will occur. We hope that by working with and keeping Station Square businesses and users informed, these disruptions can be kept to a minimum.”
The cost of the scheme is being funded by money allocated to the council from the government’s growth Area Fund and from contributions by developers.
