Church Walk works move into next phase

The development, which is a key feature of the ongoing £1.8 million Hinckley High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme, is expected to be finished by spring 2024. 

However, as part of upcoming works, the car park on Church Walk will be temporarily closed to all users from Monday 12 February. This will include those with disabled badges who had previously been able to access the car parking throughout the scheme. Additional disabled parking bays will be created in Castle car park on Hill Street until Church Walk car park reopens.

Drivers are warned that both the car park and road will offer no access for vehicles on Church Walk beyond the rear of WH Smith and up to Castle Street. However, the entire area including the car park will re-open to all drivers in late March. 

Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council is currently working with affected traders to make alternative arrangements for bin collections and deliveries during the closure. 

Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the works. However, there may be some minor diversions for pedestrians moving between Argents Mead and Castle Street while works are ongoing. 

The works are part of a £1.8 million programme of improvements to Hinckley town centre, with all developments following a consultation with visitors, residents and local businesses. They meet the strict requirements set down by Historic England.

The whole development aims to make the most of the town’s character features and will improve walking and movement around the town, particularly between Castle Street and Argents Mead.

It has also provided the opportunity for replacement shop fronts and various repairs and enhancements to nine buildings in the town centre since the scheme began. Many of the town’s historic jitties have also been renovated, with improvements including new paving and signage and landscaping features.  All works are due to be complete by April 2024.

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council Planning Manager (Major Projects) Stephen Meynell, said:

Works are progressing well on enhancing this key area of the town centre that once complete, will improve movement and accessibility around the town for everyone. My thanks to residents, businesses, and visitors for their patience as these works move towards completion.