Canal Quarter masterplan unveiled

Proposals to breathe new life into the Canal Quarter area of Lancaster were unveiled at a special event this weekend.

Proposals to breathe new life into the Canal Quarter area of Lancaster were unveiled at a special event this weekend.

The event, which took place on Brewery Lane and at Kanteena on Sunday (October 9), gave people the opportunity to view and comment on a proposed masterplan for the site.

A range of visuals were presented to give people a snapshot of how the masterplan aims to create a vibrant and sustainable mixed-use neighbourhood with a mix of approximately 580 rentable and private homes. They would have their own amenity space as well as semi-private communal spaces.

Safe pedestrian and cycle friendly streets would provide new pedestrian access to Lancaster Canal and surrounding areas are also part of the plan with plenty of non-residential space for business, retail, food and beverage opportunities. 

The masterplan also introduces two new public squares to provide lively social spaces for events along a new Brewery Street. 

Anyone who was unable to attend the event can view the masterplan, related presentations and comment on the proposals at Lancaster.gov.uk/canal-quarter. The deadline for feedback is October 28.

The masterplan will also be on display at St Nicolas Arcades on Saturday October 22 from 11am to 4pm. Forms will be available for people to leave their comments. The presentation boards can also be viewed in Lancaster Town Hall between 9am and 1pm (weekdays) up until October 28.

Councillor Gina Dowding, cabinet member for planning and place making, said: “Sunday’s event was a great opportunity to find out what people think about the proposals to regenerate this important site which has remained derelict for far too long.

“Not only does the masterplan enable us to breathe new life into this neglected area which sits close to Lancaster’s cultural, historical and leisure amenities, but also enables us to provide local people and families with a much-needed source of affordable quality homes.

“If you couldn’t attend the event, I would urge people to take advantage of the further opportunity to help shape the future of this site.”

Lancaster’s Canal Quarter covers around six acres of land, immediately to the east of the city centre.

While the vision covers the entire site, only part of it is in the ownership of the city council.

The council is in the process of a detailed review of whether it can take a role in direct delivery of housing on part of its own land, delivering affordable properties at affordable and social rent and shared ownership. 

It is also working with the major private land interests and key government agencies, such as Homes England, to find solutions to overcome viability challenges. 

The current economic turbulence presents challenges, but the masterplan is focussed on bringing certainty to the desired outcome and shape of development. 

It’s envisaged that sites will be brought forward in phases as funding opportunities become available and delivery arrangements settled.

Last updated: 12 October 2022