An inquiry seeking opinions on the future of Newbury town center has been extended.

The city center master plan ‘vision’ commissioned by the West Berkshire Council examines ways to improve Newbury and help it recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

Consultant HemingwayDesign posted early comments, with suggestions including a new bridge over the canal between Bridge Street and the American Bridge to connect different parts of the city, transform the waterfront with cafes and restaurants, convert the road Park Way in a civic street and increase the number of independent businesses in the municipality.

The blueprint investigation was scheduled to end on Friday, but was extended until July 30.

The council said the investigation, which began on June 28, drew “a lot of good answers and ideas,” but that it wanted to collect more to have as much information as possible to shape the center. city.

Council chief Lynne Doherty (Con, Speen) said. “We are reaching an exciting point in this important project.

“The response to the first survey was impressive and helped us create a tangible draft vision that is relevant to our communities and the issues they face.

“The response to the second survey is also going wonderfully and we want to keep it going until July 30 to make sure everyone has a chance to have their say.

“We now need our residents to tell us how they think we are doing on this project and to make sure we are going in the right direction. This is an important part of the process and we are asking people to take the survey and let us know if they think we are on the right track.

“Newbury already has a lot to offer, with its mix of green spaces, independent shops and a strong cultural heritage.

“The majority of those interviewed, while acknowledging this, believed Newbury had the potential to be an even better place to live, work and learn.

“By working together, we will build a strong planning framework for the future.

“Taking part in the survey is key to getting there and we want as many people as possible to give their opinion. “

The results of the survey will be brought together to inform the preparation of the spatial vision and master plan for publication of the final draft in early fall.

This will then define the formal planning framework for the future regeneration and development of the city center.

The “Vision for Newbury Town Center” draft is available here.

The survey takes approximately seven minutes and can be completed here.