24/1/2012 - Councillors give go ahead to £345,000 improvements to Kendal Highgate

Pedestrians on Kendal’s Highgate shopping street are set to benefit from £345,000 of improvements and removal of clutter from pavements and better street lighting.

County Councillors on South Lakeland Local Committee this week agreed details of the scheme to be funded with £185,000 from the County Council's transport capital programme together with £160,000 from South Lakeland District Council.

Works will take place along the stretch between Lowther Street and Gillinggate. The improvements will see the current paving flags replaced with ‘tegula’ paving blocks.  The old paving will be removed and restored for future use elsewhere.  

Better street lighting and more crossing points will help make pedestrians safer. Clutter will also be removed from the pavements, such as signs which could be better placed elsewhere.

Many local people had their say on proposals for the improvements to Highgate at Kendal library late last year. 

Cllr Geoff Cook, Chair of South Lakeland Local Committee and County Councillor for Kendal Highgate, said: “Highgate is an important part of Kendal’s economy as it is home to so many shops and businesses.  It is obviously very well used by pedestrians so it’s important that the pavement is in good condition and clear of clutter.  

“These works will have a big impact on the look and condition of Highgate and it is excellent news that this has got the backing not only of councillors on the county council’s South Lakeland Local Committee but also from South Lakeland District Council.”

South Lakeland District Council Leader Brendan Jameson said: “During difficult economic times it is essential that we support and help our retail areas. The funding being made available and the works planned will help increase footfall to the area and increase its attractiveness to potential businesses and customers.”

Works will begin later in 2012.

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