THIS is how Winchester could look in the future if civic chiefs choose to pedestrianise the city centre.

At least that's the vision put to environmental campaigners following the launch of a public consultation into the Winchester Movement Strategy.

The CGIs were produced by city firm Design Engine Architects and were unveiled at WinACC's meeting on Saturday, for which around 100 people attended.

They show how Winchester could be made more open and accessible to pedestrians and cyclist, with the current pedestrian zone in the lower portion of High Street extended the full length, as well as along Jewry Street and St George's Street.

A spokesman for Design Engine Architects said: "We have produced a report to look at whether it is possible to create a more pedestrian and cycle-focused Winchester within the next 30 years.

"Initially it does not seek to solve the complex traffic problems that the city currently faces but looks at the telescope from the other end.

"With population growth and the associated impact on the existing infrastructure, as well as the increasing awareness of the impact of poor quality air on our health and mental wellbeing, it has become increasingly apparent that significant changes will need to be made to our traffic infrastructure to ensure that cities like Winchester continue to prosper.

"Coupled with these problems is the impact of the internet on our shopping habits which means that cities need to offer increasingly attractive destinations which will support a quality living, working and leisure experience."

It comes after last month's publication of the emerging Winchester Movement Strategy, produced by Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council, alongside the public consultation.

As previously reported, the document suggested a range of measures in a bid to cut city-centre traffic and improve air quality. They include increasing capacity for park and ride services and consolidating parking outside the city centre, giving buses priority over cars, and enhancing cycling and pedestrian routes.

It also said drivers could face congestion charges in Winchester if plans fail to work.

Following the current consultation, which runs until 11.59pm on January 13, a final document is expected to be published next spring to help deliver improvements and secure funding.

To take part in the consultation, visit www.hants.gov.uk/winchestermovementstrategy, call 0300 555 1388, or email strategic.transport@hants.gov.uk.

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