Million pound government support package for town centre

Over a million pounds has been made available specifically for the improvement of Putney High Street as part of a government package to revitalise town centres.

The £1,058,706 from the Future High Streets Fund Competition will be used to supplement existing projects already taking place on the local high street.

The funding was announced in a letter from Robert Jenrick, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities..

The Leader of Wandsworth Council, Cllr Ravi Govindia, welcomed the news saying it would be a massive boost for Putney and the local area.

He added, "This is the perfect Christmas present for Putney. To receive more than £1m of investment is going to really help and support local businesses along the High Street who have been struggling during these difficult times."

Wandsworth Council has already embarked on a scheme to improve Putney High Street. The plans were drawn up after a consultation with local people and groups, such as the Positively Putney business improvement district.

Improvements have already been carried out in the town centre including the uplighting of St Mary’s Church and the illumination of Putney Bridge.

In addition the council plans to widen and repave the eastern side of the pavement between Disraeli Road and Putney Bridge Road, where the space allows, and construct granite ‘Copenhagen Crossings’ at side street junctions.

The area outside the railway station is to be repaved and a loading bay outside Tesco is to be introduced to prevent delivery vehicles blocking the road.

The streetlights are to be upgraded and more trees, planters, seating and cycle parking are to be added.

Cllr Govindia added, "We know the impact that Covid-19 has had on our town centres and we continue to work closely with our local businesses, residents and community groups to ensure the continued vibrancy of our town centres and high streets, to support the local economy and protect jobs.

"This funding announcement is going to hugely support our commitment to make Putney High Street safer and more attractive and is very welcome news for the whole area."

December 28, 2020