Council asks for views on extending pedestrianisation in Chester

Cheshire West and Chester Council is asking for views on proposals to extend its pedestrianisation in Chester as part of a wider engagement, supporting its One City Plan.

Plans are for Bridge Street, Watergate Street, Northgate Street and Eastgate Street to continue to be closed to traffic from 10.30am till 8pm, and for the scheme to be widened to include the extension of restrictions on St Werburgh Street, Frodsham Street and Foregate Street from 10.30am till 4pm on Sundays.

This would bring these areas in line with the current restrictions which are in place Monday to Saturday.  The Council would like to know what residents, businesses and visitors think of this idea.

The Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways and Strategic Transport, Councillor Karen Shore said: “Much has changed over the last two years. The COVID-19 pandemic has made everyone think about what is important to them and how they can adapt their lifestyle.

“Chester city centre has faced the same challenges with retailers finding new ways of delivering their products and services to customers.  One of the changes we have seen in the city is the increase in the number of hospitality venues offering alfresco drinking and dining.  This has added a vibrant and exciting dynamic which has bridged the gap between the daytime and night-time economies.  This is something the Council is keen to encourage and continue.

“As well as being home to the wonderful Storyhouse, this part of the city has exciting times ahead with the forthcoming opening of the new Northgate development.  There is also the return of the popular outside space on Town Hall Square, provided by the Parklet.  We are all looking forward to warmer weather and lighter evenings to enjoy Chester city centre.

“This engagement is asking for people’s views on extending and enhancing the pedestrianisation in Chester.  Please do get involved and let us know what you think of this proposal.”

Anyone with comments can view the engagement here:

Council’s Participate Now website. 

Comments can also be emailed or posted:

chesterlocality@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Council Offices at 4 Civic Way, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire CH65 0BE.