Cumbria County Council’s highways department is implementing a number of new traffic measures in Penrith town centre, which will take effect from this Saturday, 20 June in time for the town’s first weekend of shopping as many Penrith shops have opened this week following the relaxation of government restrictions.
The new measures are required to maintain the ongoing social distancing guidance from the government, to manage road space and limit the risk to the general public by significantly reducing the amount of traffic in and around Penrith town centre.
The works involve closing the main road through the town centre to through traffic, whilst maintaining restricted access via Sandgate and Burrowgate for vehicles that require access for deliveries, residents and disabled badge holders.
All on-street parking will be restricted to disabled bays and loading bays on Middlegate, Devonshire Street and King Street. The main route will be closed for south bound traffic at the junction of Middlegate and Brunswick Road, and for north bound traffic on King Street outside Lloyds Bank, however King Street will only be open for access from the junction with Old London Road.
The diversion route for south bound traffic will be via Brunswick Road, Cromwell Road, Ullswater Road, the A66 and Bridge Lane and in the reverse direction for north bound traffic.
We ask that drivers respect the restrictions in place as they are essential to maintaining the latest public health guidance regarding COVID-19.
Cllr Helen Fearon, Local Member for Penrith West, said: “These temporary measures are important to maintain social distancing guidance and while they may cause some initial disruption as we all get used to the new restrictions, I’d ask for everyone’s cooperation and understanding as we are all adapting to new ways of living and working during this difficult time. The new measures will be monitored and reviewed on a regular basis.
“I understand that the business community in Penrith may have some concerns regarding the new temporary measures, however I’d like to reassure them that we will continue to work closely with them and support them to overcome any challenges the new measures may create.
“A huge amount of work has gone on behind the scenes to get our town centres open and to enable our businesses and residents to return to work and move around the town safely – I’d like to say thank you to all of the colleagues involved from different organisations, including Penrith Town Council, Eden District Council, the county council, Penrith’s BIDs, Chamber of Trade and Cumbria Police.”
Details of the businesses open in Penrith can be found on Penrith Chamber of Trade’s website: http://www.penrithchamberoftrade.org.uk/coronavirus-update/
