Work began on November 2 to improve the Borough
MILLIONS of pounds are being channelled into sprucing up Merton.
On Monday, November 2, work began to improve Kingston Road between Cannon Hill and Wimbledon Chase Station.
Shrubs and trees are being planted, and four bins, four benches and 14 cycle stands will be installed.
All existing street furniture, except for street lighting and essential road signs, will be removed, and pavements will be repaired and thoroughly cleaned.
Councillor David Simpson, Cabinet member for environment and leisure services, said: “We are committed to putting residents first by improving the physical appearance of the borough for everyone.
“In rolling out similar improvement programmes to other parts of the borough, we want to ensure a well designed and attractive public realm.”
The strategy, agreed earlier this year, is the result of public consultations, and follows announcements over Wimbledon Station’s future.
Merton Council revealed in October that more than £1m will be spent transforming the Kingston Road site in time for the 2012 Olympics.
London Mayor Boris Johnson has shown support.
He said: “The outside of Wimbledon Station is somewhere we can look to beautify.”
Diana Sterck, chief executive of Merton Chamber of Commerce, said the move was long awaited.
“This is about Wimbledon living up to its reputation when visitors walk into the town centre. At the moment it can be rather disappointing,” she added.
Funding for Wimbledon station will come from Transport for London, Network Rail and Merton Council.
Cabinet member for finance and regeneration, Councillor Diane Neil Mills, said: “In addition to the improvements to the station forecourt, we are in discussions with the Mayor of London’s office to evaluate further improvements to the town centre that could be delivered in time for the 2012 Olympics.
“As a legacy of the Games, these improvements will be there for our residents to benefit from for years to come.”
