Support for the proposed approach to Speakers’ Corner, South Parade Gardens and Rock Gardens is high with three-quarters of respondents selecting that they are in agreement with it. 35% ‘strongly agree’ (282 respondents) and 39% ‘agree’ (312 respondents).
11% of respondents do not agree with the approach.
The following chart shows agreement with Speakers’ Corner, South Parade Gardens and Rock Gardens. Agreement levels are high with 75% of respondents selecting ‘strongly agree’ or ‘agree’.
The following in-depth analysis has been undertaken in the interest of the council wanting to be thorough and transparent of the issues at hand.
Both elements of the proposed approach to Speakers’ Corner, South Parade Gardens & Rock Gardens were selected by a majority of respondents when asked which they disagree with.
The following chart shows which elements of Speakers’ Corner, South Parade Gardens and Rock Gardens respondents disagree with. Both elements were unpopular and were selected by a majority of respondents.
Respondents feel that the opportunity to pedestrianise a section of Clarence Esplanade is too cyclist/ pedestrian focussed and is again anti-motorist. Some think this proposal is unnecessary and don’t want any more road restrictions implemented.
The enhancement of Speakers’ Corner is unpopular because it is already seen as being utilised, some feel that there isn’t a need for a more development and in particular a focus on food and drink.
The following table expands on the responses from the previous chart.
| wdt_ID | Proposed approach | Common themes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Opportunity to pedestrianise a section of Clarence Esplanade that lies south of South Parade Gardens to create a safer and attractive route for walking and cycling | Proposal is too pro-cyclist/pedestrians, and too anti-car drivers. Unnecessary. Need parking provisions here. No more road closures/restrictions wanted. Lack of accessibility. Would discourage visitors. Need to keep vehicle access. |
| 2 | Enhance Speakers' Corner as a new leisure cluster with a focus on food and beverage, with potential to incorporate cycling hub and associated facilities | Do not want a focus on food and drink. This space is already used by different groups for activities. Do not want a cycling hub. No development wanted here in general. Cycling facilities would be good, not other suggestions. |
| 3 | Something else | Keep the open space. Improve the rock gardens. Keep the approach simple. Link Speakers' Corner with the Pyramids. |