NEW plans have been drawn up to improve pedestrian access to the High Street from the ASDA development.

After public consultation, a new design - set to cost around £200,000 - was created to upgrade access across both Market Street and the bus lane in Mill Lane.

At present, people wander across the lane in front of buses and taxis to get to the High Street.

Original plans consisted of three options for better pedestrian access to safely link the ASDA store with the High Street.

The options included plans to build a footbridge across Spadesbourne Brook, widen the Market Street footpath, and to build a pedestrian crossing in Mill Lane.

Councillors approved the three options last October for inclusion in a public consultation.

Following the review in November, a fourth option, Option F, was drawn up after shop owners decided they wanted to keep lorry access to the rear of their buildings.

Option F now includes plans to build a crossing across the exit to Mill Lane and construct a footpath to run alongside Iceland.

Councillor Peter Whittaker (Con-Tardebigge) said: "The development will link the High Street with ASDA and will allow people to cross safely. That should be welcomed. It will also help disabled access."

In addition to this, another two plans were added that included consideration for a possible town centre square.

However, these were soon discounted because of the cost, reduction in bus platforms and safety criteria. Option F has now become the preferred choice of planning officers and will be put to Bromsgrove District Council's executive at a meeting tonight (Wednesday) for agreement to consult the public again.

Funding for the project, if agreed, will come mainly from Bromsgrove District Council and Worcestershire County Council and money left over from the Asda development.

christopher.flavell@midlands.newsquest.co.uk