PLANS to transform Usk in to a more pedestrian friendly town are a step closer after two councils signed up consultants who will draw up a masterplan.

Monmouthshire County Council and Usk Town Council have appointed ARUP Consultancy with the aim of creating a safer environment in the town for pedestrians.

The move follows concerns from some residents who reported feeling unsafe when walking through Bridge Street, and increased traffic has led to a drop in air quality.

There were also concerns raised over the number of large vehicles passing along Bridge Street, and regular damage caused to the Usk Bridge.

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ARUP Consultancy will work with the councils to develop a masterplan for the development of the town.

Cllr Jane Pratt, Monmouthshire council cabinet member for infrastructure and neighbourhood services, said: "We are really pleased to have an opportunity to partner Usk Town Council in this exciting initiative.

"For many years we have recognised that Usk requires a concentrated piece of work to identify the opportunities that will enable the town to be fit for the future through supporting local businesses and creating a destination where visitors and residents can enjoy the town alike.

"We very much look forward to seeing the results."

Christine Wilkinson, mayor of Usk, said: "We are excited, not only to have ARUP on board for this next stage, but to have the county council joining us, to drive this forward.

"As well as creating a visionary, future-proof, masterplan - very much with the 'shared space' ethos at its heart - ARUP will explore, attract and secure funding streams so that dreams can indeed become realities.”