Work set to begin on pedestrianisation of Narrowgate in Alnwick following successful trial in 2019
The pedestrianisation works will finish in January 2025
by Adam Foster · ChronicleLiveWork is under way on the pedestrianisation of Narrowgate in Alnwick – to make the area safer and more welcoming to shoppers and visitors.
The road will be replaced by granite blocks with new paving on the footways that reflect the high conservation status of the area, with improved bollards and new road markings at the Market Street end.
As part of the overall pedestrianisation scheme, the teams will also be making changes to the junction between Fenkle Street and Market Street.
The work follows a trial from 2019, when Northumberland County Council and Alnwick Town Council agreed to pedestrianise Narrowgate after concerns the street was not wide enough to comfortably accommodate both pedestrians and heavy traffic.
County Councillor John Riddle, Cabinet Member for Improving our Roads and Highways, said: “The safety of pedestrians in all our towns is essential and concerns had been raised about mix of shoppers and heavy traffic on this narrow street.
“Following the trial we carried out a detailed consultation and it was agreed we’d take forward a permanent solution to pedestrianise the street creating an improved traffic free environment for shoppers and visitors and connecting into the Market Place via Paikes Lane.
"I’m pleased this work is now under way and it will be a great improvement once complete.”
Alnwick Mayor Councillor Geoff Watson added: “The increase in traffic volumes resulted in Narrowgate becoming increasingly hazardous for pedestrians and following consultation with a majority in favour of pedestrianisation, the Town Council and Northumberland County Council have worked closely together on the design.
“I am looking forward to the completion of the work which will make the street safer and enhance Alnwick's historic town centre. Please continue to support the excellent businesses in Narrowgate."
The work will continue until December and will pause for the Christmas shopping period before teams return to finish in January 2025.
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