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With planning permission granted for the A591 highways and access scheme, there continues to be significant behind-the-scenes work to progress with securing funding and unlocking delivery across the complex programme.
The highways and access scheme, including upgrades to the A591, Thwaites Lane and new pedestrian and cycle links between the site and Windermere train station, will see visibility and safety measures installed, surface material changes to better highlight the presence of the junction and encourage drivers to reduce speed, and pedestrian and cyclist priority.
This would be the first stage to unlocking land at Orrest Head Farm – allocated in the Lake District National Park Local Plan for housing and employment – which remains subject to planning approval. Development work is ongoing to ensure that the housing building – particularly affordable housing- is viable and aligned to local need, policy and market conditions.
Funding to support the highways works is being sought through Homes England's Brownfield Infrastructure and Land fund.
It is hoped that we will be able to share news about this funding very soon.
Meanwhile, the project continues to be a priority for the project partners and is included in:
The project partners are mindful of the current funding landscape and wider economic pressures and continue to explore opportunities for investment to support the long-term delivery of the programme.
Windermere Gateway is a key priority in Westmorland and Furness Council’s broader vision for the development of rail and road infrastructure.
Recognising Windermere Station's pivotal role, the partnership is progressing with the development of early concepts to ensure that proposals for the Transport Interchange are able to reflect the ambition to enhance the arrival experience and support both local and visitor movements.
The council has conducted a feasibility study to look at what options might be possible and how much they cost. It’s early days but they are looking at options and funding to:
- Improve the ‘sense of arrival’ when you arrive by train or bus in Windermere.
- Improve facilities at the station including waiting areas, signage and the feel of the site.
- Improve the forecourt for buses, taxis and drop-offs.
- Improve connections for walking and cycling on into town, including from the new housing at Orrest Head Farm.
- Reduce road congestion.
Plans have also been submitted to government for funds to build a new platform and passing loop at Burneside. This would allow two trains per hour, meaning a significant increase in passenger numbers, reduction in road congestion, collisions and greenhouse gases.
In future the council hopes to:
- Seek and secure funding for the significant changes around the station. This has proved challenging in the past but we’re working hard at it.
- Develop specific proposals that it can consult on and seek your feedback on.
- Seek and secure funds to support the passing loop improvement.
Go to the Windermere Gateway website to find out more about the scheme as a whole or the projects individually.
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