The first phase of works to make the heart of the Vale more attractive and appealing to pedestrians has been completed following months of upheaval.
Regeneration work got underway in May aiming to improve the public spaces around the Vale’s iconic Smollett Fountain.
This included wider pavements and new pedestrian crossings for walkers and wheelers and a new road layout improving traffic flow around the centre of the town.
It also included improved traffic signals and pedestrian crossings aiding visitors to the area.
However traders were left counting the cost, with Alexandria grinding to a halt over the summer - and shoppers facing a maze of barriers to visit stores.
In August we reported how trade at some had fallen by 40 percent, whilst others raised doubts over the impact the works would have on footfall.
However Councillor David McBride, convener of infrastructure, regeneration and economic development, is sure that the changes will benefit Alexandria.
Speaking last week, the Labour member said: “I am delighted with the enhancements that have been carried out in the heart of the Vale so far and thank everyone for their patience while these were ongoing.
“The works have significantly enhanced traffic flow in the area, making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
“The wider pavements and new granite whinstone footpaths pedestrian crossings brighten up the centre and we anticipate that the attractive space will stimulate economic growth and increase footfall to the wide range of businesses the area has to offer.”
The next phase of the project, which is expected to start in March, will see the restoration of the historic Smollett Fountain itself.
Work will include conservation repairs to the fountain, including steam cleaning, repairs to the cast iron heron, re-lining of the basins and re-carving of missing gargoyles and installation of a new decorative lighting scheme.
Logistical challenges mean that it isn’t possible for WDC to reconnect the water supply.
Last month, depute council leader Michelle McGinty hit out at the state of the fountain - saying she was embarrassed to stand beside it during Remembrance Day commemorations.
She said: “I was disappointed on Remembrance Sunday when we stood to take the salute from the veterans and the fountain had weeds hanging out of it. It was in an absolute state. I know that works on it have still to go out to tender, but the fact they’ve done so much work around the realms made it quite embarrassing to stand there at Remembrance Day when that was still in a real state of disrepair.”
She also praised the ongoing work to transform the heart of the Vale, with demolition work now underway on the eyesore Mitchell Way.
Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, vice-convener of IRED, added: “These improvement works are vital to increase the safety for visitors, as well as ensuring their shopping and socialising experience is as pleasant as possible.
“I would like to thank residents and businesses for their patience and feedback received during the works to enhance Alexandria Town Centre, which we have taken on board by reinstating the filter lane at Main Street and the yellow waiting box at Gilmour Street returned to its original position.
“I hope this investment will attract more visitors and support the local businesses in the area.”
