THE long-term future of Basingstoke town centre is being considered by the borough council which has enlisted the help of a team of experts.

Hemingway Design, Allies and Morrison and JLL have been appointed by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to develop a vision for the town centre area.

They are set to carry out a study over the next six months which will include engagement with residents, businesses, and other groups to help understand views about the town centre, shopping habits and what people would like to see improved.

The council said: “High streets across the UK have and continue to experience the effects of changes in shopping habits due to the challenges brought by the Covid-19 pandemic.”

They added: “As our shopping and spending habits evolve, town centres must also evolve. The Covid-19 pandemic has transformed the way we live our lives and towns and cities across the UK are starting to look to a future that meets these changing needs.

“These could include leisure, housing, health and wellbeing, getting together with friends and family, education, eating out, culture, evening economy, transport, work and of course shopping.

“Ensuring Basingstoke town centre has something for everyone is a key part of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s plans for the borough’s economic recovery from the pandemic.”

The public is now being asked to have their say to help shape the future of the town centre, by taking part in an online survey.

Questions include what you like and do not like about the town centre, and what you would like to see in the future.

To take part click here.