Transforming Carlisle's Southern Gateway: Enhancing City Connectivity and Public Realm
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Positive Observation No.
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Community Satisfaction %
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The Southern Gateway of Carlisle, marked by the intersection of road, rail, and bus services, is a pivotal entry point into the city centre.
Recognising its significance, the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal and Town Deal Fund has spotlighted this area for substantial investment. This includes rejuvenating Carlisle Station and establishing the University of Cumbria's Citadels Campus, all while anchoring improvements in Devonshire Street and English Street.
Acknowledgment to the GL Hearn Ltd Project Team for Visuals and Design.
Project Overview: The Southern Gateway project aimed to comprehensively revamp the heart of Carlisle by integrating key developments, promoting active travel, and augmenting public spaces. By improving access, parking, passenger amenities, and enhancing the English Street and Botchergate, the project aimed to elevate the welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
Key Improvements:
1. Enhanced Pedestrian Zones: Creating widened, pedestrian-friendly areas along English Street and Botchergate, encouraging safe and leisurely walking. 2. Dedicated Cycle Infrastructure: Developing segregated cycle lanes to promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation within the city centre. 3. Greener Public Spaces: Incorporating trees, plants, and green infrastructure to improve air quality, provide shade, and enhance the aesthetics of the area. 4. Upgraded Street Furniture: Installing modern and functional street furniture, including seating, lighting, and waste disposal facilities, to improve public comfort. 5. Table-Top Crossings: Implementing pedestrian-friendly crossing points with table-top treatments, enhancing safety and encouraging easy movement. 6. Pavement Widening: Widening pavements to allow for increased foot traffic, creating a more pleasant and comfortable pedestrian experience. 7. Reduced Carriageway Width: Allocating less space to vehicles by reducing carriageway width, prioritising pedestrians and cyclists. 8. Public Rest Areas: Incorporating well-designed rest areas with seating and shelter for pedestrians to take a break.
Phases and Execution:
The scheme was meticulously designed to align with Carlisle's Town Deal Fund which emphasised growth, vibrancy, connectivity, and resilience. The project's objectives encompassed strengthening Carlisle's status as a university city, fostering sustainable travel modes, and bolstering its visitor and leisure appeal. This scheme is yet to be constructed.
Positive Outcomes:
Increased Footfall: With enhanced aesthetics and improved amenities, the area is likely to attract more residents, visitors, and tourists, leading to increased foot traffic and economic activity.
Boost to Local Businesses: The improved streetscape and inviting environment could positively impact local businesses, attracting more customers and contributing to economic growth.
Promotion of Active Travel: The provision of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian-friendly zones will encourage more people to choose walking and cycling as their preferred modes of transport, promoting healthier lifestyles.
Attractive Gateway: The transformed Southern Gateway will serve as a welcoming entrance to Carlisle, leaving a positive first impression on visitors arriving by various modes of transportation.
Promotion of Local Heritage: Highlighting heritage assets through better access and interpretation can boost cultural tourism and promote a deeper understanding of the city's history.
Model for Future Development: The Southern Gateway project can serve as a model for future urban regeneration projects, showcasing successful strategies for creating livable and vibrant urban spaces.
Partnership and Collaboration: The project's success will underscore the benefits of collaboration between local government, businesses, communities, and various stakeholders in achieving shared goals for urban improvement.
Collaborative Approach:
A collaborative approach was integral to the success of this initiative. Aligning with Carlisle's Local Plan, the project resonated with local aspirations for active transport, economic vibrancy, and evening economy enhancement. Strong synergies with the Cumbria Local Industrial Strategy further solidified the project's importance as a driver of change.
Emma Porter Chair of Carlisle’s Town Deal Board added:
“I’d like to thank all the partners that make up the Town Deal Board for their continued support. All their hard work has resulted in a multi-million-pound investment in the city. Each one of the projects will create investment and will create a lasting legacy for the city.”
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