The
Head of Environment and Public Realm introduced the report which
provided an update on the Maidstone Approach Improvement Project
which sought approval for the final designs to the street scene and
landscaping improvements on a key arterial route.
The
Committee commented as follows:-
·
That the Maidstone Sign be accepted although it was
felt that the coat of arms could be a little larger.
·
Ensure that the memorial by the bus stop opposite
Weavering Street was not touched or
removed.
·
That the silhouettes for the railings should be
smoothed down so that there were no sharp edges
·
That the design for the dinosaur should be changed
to better reflect the Iguanodon.
The
Head of Environment and Public Realm advised that KCC would have
the final approval on the designs for the railings as they need to
ensure that they would not compromise the safety of the
railings.
It was
noted that the dinosaur would be put on a plinth on the area by
where the bus lane starts at New Cut Road.
In
response to a question from a Member, the Head of Environment and
Public Realm stated that the stone wall would continue to be
maintained out of existing budgets and was subject to an annual
inspection programme.
RESOLVED:
That
1.
The installation of a new heritage-style
‘Welcome to Maidstone’ sign on the A20 with the words
“The County Town of Kent” be
approved.
2.
The four installations to celebrate the heritage and
history of Maidstone, specifically an Iguanodon silhouette, bicycle
silhouettes, hop frame and planting as well as Go Green Go Wild
inspired tree carving be approved; and
3.
The concept of a townscape silhouette attached to
safety railings be approved, pending further operational
exploration.