Help shape the future of the Canal Quarter

A chance for people to have their say about a blueprint for the Canal Quarter in Lancaster has just started, with the launch of an eight-week consultation. 

Lancaster City Council has commissioned consultants Avison Young/Planit IE to develop a vision for the redevelopment of the area around the old Mitchell’s Brewery site and adjacent car parks.

Last year a series of engagement events were held with representatives from a wide body of organisations to ask what design principles and uses should underpin the vision, leading to the publication of a draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD).

This sets out a framework for future development of the area, acceptable uses for the land and essential ingredients such as sustainability and incorporation of green spaces. 

People are now being asked to have their say on the vision it sets out at one of a series of public exhibitions.

Consultation events will take place as follows: 

• Thursday January 9, St Nicholas Arcade, 12pm to 4pm
• Saturday January 11, St Nicholas Arcade, 10.30am to 1.30pm
• Wednesday January 15, The Gregson Centre, 1pm-4pm
• Saturday January 18, Marketgate Shopping Centre, 1pm-4pm
• Tuesday January 21, The Storey, 3pm to 7pm
• Thursday January 30, Lancaster City Museum, 12pm to 4pm

All of the comments received will be taken into consideration when developing the final SPD and its adoption by the council. 

Any future development plans, be they from the public or private sector, put forward will then be expected to meet the aspirations that the framework sets out,

Following adoption it will be used as a ‘test’ against which any developments will be put and expected to meet.

Coun John Reynolds, cabinet member with responsibility for planning policy, said: “The development of the SPD is an important part of the process in the regeneration of the Canal Quarter. Once adopted it will guide development in the area for many years to come, so it is vital that we get it right. The input of the public into this process is key if we are to develop a vision that we all share, and I would urge everyone to join in the consultation and help influence this important blueprint.”

The consultation is open for eight weeks and follows a series of engagements events with representatives from a wide body of organisations. 

It’s available to view online if you’d like to get involved.

Closing date for your comments is Monday February 10 2020.

Last updated: 20 December 2019