Bell Street in Romsey to be reopened

Bell Street in Romsey has been closed off since September as part of redevelopment plans in the town centre to level pavements with the roads.

Now, public access could begin to return as soon as early as next week after resurfacing work is carried out.

Although no official date has been confirmed, the road will be open for access to flats within the next few days for access through to Market Place and Church Street.

The closure has been criticised by founder of art and craft outlet Rum’s Eg, Siriol Sherlock.

The outlet was forced to close after six years, with Siriol saying that the shutting of Bell Street had proved to be too big of a challenge for

Despite numerous requests, Hampshire County Council, who are leading the town developments, did not respond on more than one occasion when asked for an official opening date.

The council had previously said it would reopen in May, but has not offered a specific date.

Town centre manager for Romsey, Mark Edgerley, pictured, said: “We expect Bell Street to open to all traffic early next week subject to final inspection of the works.

“This is very welcome news for businesses in the street and the wider community of Romsey.

“ I appreciate the understanding of the majority through these works and I know the retailers will be pleased to see shoppers exploring the new open aspects of the street and the great shops in it.

“Contractors will be working on minor aspects such as installation of street furniture as well as clearing their yard from Newton Lane carpark and Broadwater Road for a couple more weeks, so please drive very carefully through the area.

“While pedestrians and drivers get used to the new layout it’s important we all take extra care using Bell Street.”

The works come as part of a project that has seen similar works in Church Street. The final stage of the works is due to take place in Market Place next year to make it more pedestrian-friendly, according to Hampshire County Council.