Maidenhead town centre - urban designers appointed

A top-flight firm of urban design experts has been appointed to work with PRoM and the Royal Borough to take forward plans for the regeneration of Maidenhead town centre.

DTZ – nationally recognised for its work in major city and historic town centres – was selected unanimously following a detailed tendering process and will now help develop a vision for the future of Maidenhead. 

Their submission, in conjunction with architects and planners BDP, impressed PRoM members with its commitment and creativity. 

Now a stakeholder workshop is to be held to help ensure that local views are at the heart of the entire process.

Bob Dulson, PRoM's independent chairman, said: "DTZ have an excellent grasp of the current situation in Maidenhead and of PRoM's determination to take forward a regeneration programme that involves local stakeholders and the wider community. 

"We are planning extensive consultation as the vision and masterplan take shape but in the meantime we will be organising a workshop to take on board the views of stakeholders not involved so far, including young people, so that they can be reflected right from the start."

Cllr David Burbage, Conservative leader of the council and vice-chairman of PRoM, said:  "The appointment of top quality urban designers is a positive signal that PRoM is moving ahead. I believe we are on the brink of a truly exciting time for the successful development of Maidenhead town centre."

Cllr Simon Werner, leader of the Liberal Democrat opposition group on the council, said:  "We want to make Maidenhead a must-visit destination, where shopping, leisure and business merge seamlessly together.  PRoM brings together representatives from key organisations to work closely in the best interests of Maidenhead and the appointment of DTZ is a significant step towards our long-term goal."

The stakeholders' workshop will be held over the next few weeks. Invitations will be sent to local amenity and residents' groups, the young people's forum and other organisations with a keen interest in the regeneration of Maidenhead.  Organisations which would like to be represented should email prom@rbwm.gov.uk

Notes:
1. PRoM is a cross-party group created by the council with an independent chairman charged with finding agreed solutions for town centre regeneration, including the creation of a vision and masterplan and a strategy for achieving it.  It will make recommendations to the Royal Borough's cabinet
2. With a majority of lay members, PRoM represents a wide cross-section of interests in the town.  Also contributing are council officers with relevant expertise, such as transport and planning.