Preston seeks feedback on public realm upgrades

Active travel is the name of the game for the local authority’s Friargate South scheme, which would provide a north-south cycle link in the city centre while also beautifying the area.

The project focuses on a stretch in the city centre that connects Fishergate with The Harris and Flag Market, as well as the Friargate North public realm project. Provided Friargate South secures planning permission, the completion of both Friargate schemes would result in an improved pedestrian and cycle link between Fishergate to the University of Central Lancashire campus.

Proposals drawn up by Planit and Eric Wright Civil Engineering include creating a clearly identified shared zone for pedestrians, cyclists, and service vehicles on Friargate South – one with new paving so it is hard to miss. There would also be three granite-paved courtesy crossings on Friargate South, and another two on Cheapside.

The plans for Preston City Council also include the introduction of a contraflow cycle lane by the Flag Market and the installation of benches, rain gardens, litter bins, and cycle stands. An array of trees would also be planted.

Preston City Council Leader Cllr Matthew Brown “the missing piece of the puzzle” when it came to improving the city centre.

Brown continued: “The works that will include new pavements, cycle paths, seating, trees and landscaping, will tie in with what has already been achieved in other areas of the city centre, providing better links with the Harris Quarter and the University of Central Lancashire campus, as well as other existing pedestrian and cycle networks in the city.

It will also make the area more attractive to encourage new retail outlets to the area and fits in with our plans for cultural enrichment and diversity of leisure and entertainment in the central hub.”

Funding for the project comes from the city council and its successful £20m Levelling Up Fund bid. This will provide the finances for most of Friargate South – with the city council ready to deliver upgrades to Orchard Street’s public realm should it secure additional money.

A consultation on Friargate South will conclude on 21 January and can be accessed at preston.gov.uk/article/8127/Transforming-Friargate-South-Project. Provided the city council can proceed with its ideal timeline, construction work on the project could start this autumn with the scheme completing the following spring.