MK City Council announce plans to deliver Bletchley and Fenny Stratford redevelopment program

Milton Keynes City Council have announced plans to approve a new strategy to support major projects as part of a redevelopment of Bletchley and Fenny Stratford.

The Action Plan has been set out to try and meet the ambitions of the Bletchley and Fenny Stratford 2050 Vision, which MK City Council intends to deliver over the coming years.

The scheme aims to help guide future investment, regeneration activity and partnership working across the area, with the proposals aiming to deliver a vision developed through conversations with residents, businesses and community groups.

MK City Council said the sceme builds on Bletchley and Fenny Stratford’s strengths and aims to create a more vibrant town centre, support local businesses and make the most of future opportunities.

Key priorities listed by the City Council include the continued improvement of Queensway, the replacement of the site currently occupied by the Brunel Centre, enhancements around Aylesbury Street and the former fire station site, and encouraging more independent businesses, cafés and community spaces.

Improvements to Queensway are already under way through the Towns Fund programme. The scheme is creating safer streets, preventing pavement parking, providing additional parking spaces including new disabled bays, and making the area a more attractive place to visit and spend time.

The city council is also preparing for the demolition of the Brunel Centre and former Wilko building, paving the way for future redevelopment and creating opportunities for new investment that can bring fresh life to the town centre.

Earlier this year, government announced plans to contribute £17 million towards a new eastern entrance at Bletchley Railway Station, following a long campaign by local people and the city council for better access. The new entrance would provide direct access from the town centre side of the station, helping attract more visitors to local shops, businesses and attractions while strengthening Bletchley’s position as a key transport hub.

The Action Plan is built around five priorities identified by local people:

• Creating vibrant and welcoming town centres
• Supporting jobs, skills and career opportunities closer to home
• Developing greener, healthier and safer neighbourhoods
• Celebrating heritage, culture and community life
• Making the most of transport improvements, including East West Rail and enhancements to Bletchley Station

A formal decision to adopt the Action Plan will be made next week.

Cabinet Member for the Town Deal, Cllr Ed Hume, said, “This Action Plan turns the Bletchley and Fenny Stratford 2050 Vision into a clear programme of work. It provides a framework for building on the area’s strengths, supporting local businesses, improving public spaces and creating opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

“There is already real progress being made, from the improvements taking place along Queensway to plans for the Brunel Centre site and the new eastern entrance to Bletchley Station. By continuing to work closely with local partners, businesses and the community, we can help create a thriving town centre that is well connected, attractive and ready for the future, while protecting the character and heritage that make Bletchley and Fenny Stratford special.”