The centre of Grantham is getting a major facelift as part of a regeneration project, with work set to begin in the Spring.
As well as refurbishing and reopening the public conveniences on Conduit Lane, the work will provide a new space to help diversify the town centre businesses, market and leisure opportunities.
The Market Place and Station Approach are both in line for significant public realm improvements, which will encourage people to meet there, stay longer and to use pedestrian routes through the town centre rather than driving.
The works are funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund. It is anticipated they will take around nine months to complete, beginning after the Mid-Lent Fair.
Market Place improvements will create an open event space of beautiful Yorkstone setts as a focal point for the town by:
- Raising the road level from the Conduit Lane pedestrian crossing and along Westgate/Market Place, between the existing raised crossings to link the existing pedestrian areas
- Raising the exit to the short-term parking area
- Adding new stop lines at the traffic signals on Market Place and High Street
- Installing seating and adding new planting to pedestrianised areas
Station Approach will see improvements at the Station Road/A607 junction which will support work by rail company LNER to improve pedestrian access and make the area brighter and more appealing. Maintenance and improvement work will include resurfacing on Harlaxton Road and Wharf Road, the upgrading of existing traffic signals and improvements to the footpath on the north side of Wharf Road onto the southernmost part of Westgate.
Deputy Council Leader, Cllr Richard Cleaver, the portfolio holder for Property and Public Engagement, said: “This Council is placing people first.
“By putting the Market Place at the heart of Grantham will improve accessibility and reduce the impact of traffic to enable this area of the town to fulfil its true potential for the community.
“Reimagining the space provides a huge opportunity to attract people, both locally and from further afield and increase dwell time of shoppers and workers.
“The new level layout and improved facilities will open up real possibilities for events and the market itself to enhance its position as a key community space in the heart of Grantham. The work will result in a better experience for everyone, by increasing the town’s vibrancy through its culture, leisure, retail and events offer.
“It is vital that we optimise the potential of Grantham town centre and maximise the opportunities there. The FHSF bid received tremendous support from businesses and other organisations. We know there is a genuine passion for the future success of the town.
“Grantham has so much going for it: We’re on a railway line an hour or so from London, and have a connected road network with the new relief road soon to come onstream. Investing in our streets, spaces and infrastructure will ultimately boost our economy and provide a better quality of life.”
The funding is from a successful bid to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government. The aim of the Future High Streets Fund is to renew and reshape town centres and high streets in a way that drives growth, improves experience and ensures future sustainability.
The Grantham Future High Street Fund programme is administered by the Council’s Economic Development team and supported by delivery partners including Lincolnshire County Council.
For more information about the Grantham’s Future High Streets Fund, visit: https://www.southkesteven.gov.uk/economic-development