We’re looking for our new partners to consult on Eastleigh town centre
The Council is seeking a consultation partner and an Artist in Residence to support the latest ‘Together we make Eastleigh’ project focussed on Eastleigh town centre over the next two years. Powered by Levelling Up, it lays the groundwork for improved business and visitor experience.
The tender process has begun for a third-party consultant with the challenge to engage with the public and relevant stakeholders; process the findings; and develop and trial new approaches. The deadline for applications is Sunday 23 June, with work to begin from mid-July.
Bids are welcome from multi-discipline teams with experience in community engagement, placemaking, place marketing, town centre regeneration, public realm improvements, and designing and delivering highway works.
The application window has also opened for an Artist in Residence whose community engagement remit will include creative activities for all ages, to help build a picture of current perceptions of the town centre.
Artists living locally and further afield are encouraged to apply for the paid position, which will run throughout the summer and include shadowing the Eastleigh BID team as well as involvement in town centre events. The deadline for applications is Monday 10 June.
The key consultation phase will help the Council focus on the wants and needs of businesses, residents and other key stakeholders. The knowledge and data gathered by a lead consultant and creative partner will help inform future decisions and position the town to attract future funding to ultimately improve visitor experience and footfall over the coming years.
The partners and the Council will work with Eastleigh BID, Eastleigh Town Council and Hampshire County Council to cultivate a stronger business community that can promote the town and grow the collective offer.
The project, funded by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, will lay the foundations for a placemaking brand for all stakeholders to use and get behind to build the town centre as an attractive local destination.
Councillor James Duguid, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Economy said: “We can’t wait to hire our new partners and get this exciting project off the ground. This is a great opportunity for the public, business and organisations to voice their aspirations for the Eastleigh town area. I urge you all to engage with the consultation to ensure everyone is heard to improve our beloved town centre for the future.”