FAMILIES and shoppers are urged to give their views on the newly extended pavements.

Epping Forest Council is asking for views on the works and improvements to the high street.

Council bosses say the pavement widening in Epping High Street has helped to make the town centre a more appealing place to visit and shop.

The council also says the new planters and extra seating along with more space to walk, and socially distance, has been welcomed by many, generating lost of positive comments since the work was completed.

It was initially introduced to support social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic the changes have brightened up the town centre and made it easier to navigate.

Eight parking spaces were lost by widening the pavements, but none of these were disabled spaces.

Epping Forest Guardian:

One young mum told the council: “As a mum who uses the high street with a buggy and a daughter with mobility problems I love the new pavements, they are great.”

Another resident told the council: “I am really pleased the Council has widened the pavement. I hope they see sense and keep it long term. It’s much easier walking round the high street now.”

A council spokesman said: “Epping Forest District Council is considering applying to Essex County Council to make the changes permanent, and the Town Council has even suggested a designated space should be allocated in the new, wider pavement for a busker.”

Send your comments by 10 September to: eppingsaferspaces@eppingforestdc.gov.uk