Work to create a pedestrian area in Kendal town centre has begun.
Contractor Thomas Armstrong moved in yesterday to start work on the gateway on the upper section of Stramongate.
Led by Westmorland and Furness Council, the scheme will see a new raised natural stone and flagstone footpath developed to improve accessibility, cycle racks introduced, and tree pits planted at the junction of Stramongate and Blackhall Road.
The improvements will create a visually appealing entrance, reduce traffic noise and air pollution in the area.
The project has been guided by the objectives in the Kendal Town Centre Strategy and aligned with Kendal Futures’ Kendal Vision, which initiated a call to embrace change, new ideas and innovation for the town’s future.
It is expected to be complete by mid-November.
During the work, the road will be closed to vehicles and parking rights removed. Footpaths will be kept open where possible and pedestrian access to all businesses will be maintained, the authority said.
Businesses in the area will remain open and the fruit and vegetable market will continue to run every Wednesday and Saturday.
Deliveries to local premises will be via Kent Street and marshalled by a dedicated traffic management officer.
Cllr Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council cabinet member for highways and assets, said: “As a part of our commitment to improving the quality of life of our communities, this new pedestrian-friendly gateway on Stramongate in Kendal will build on an already thriving link between the town centre and local amenities.
“Using natural materials for this important scheme will set a precedent for quality public realm works across our area and it’s been fantastic to see our approach welcomed locally.
“I’m pleased that pedestrian access to the area will be maintained throughout the duration of the works, ensuring local businesses and the fruit and vegetable market will remain open whilst this new vibrant space is developed.”
Mark Cropper, Chair of Kendal Futures said: “We are delighted Westmorland and Furness Council has embraced the principles of the Kendal Vision to improve the look and feel of Stramongate.
“The scheme has been locally designed using great quality, natural stone materials, trees and a planting bed to create an attractive and appealing street for everyone to access and enjoy. We hope this pilot project will now set the standard for further public space improvements throughout Kendal’s town centre.”
