Pedestrian improvement works completed

Highway and public realm improvements to enhance pedestrian access for people visiting Lancaster’s Grand Theatre and using St Leonard’s Gate have been completed.

Funded as part of the Lancaster High Streets Heritage Action Zone project, the works have included widening the pavement in front of the Grand Theatre and the use of high-quality natural stone materials.

A courtesy crossing with tactile flags has also been installed to make it easier for people accessing the theatre from across the road.

A safety barrier that was damaged when a car drove into has been replaced by bollards customised with artwork inspired by the location’s heritage.

Those outside the Grand reflect different aspects of the theatre’s history, including some of the notable past performers, while those on the other side of the road are inspired by the former Gillow’s furniture factory.

Councillor Nick Wilkinson, cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration, skills and digital innovation, said: “The Grand Theatre is a huge success story and its popularity means that you can often have around 460 people arriving or departing at similar times.

“The widened pavement will feel a lot more comfortable for both patrons and pedestrians on what is a busy section of footpath.

“The narrowing of the carriageway will also act as a traffic calming measure and make it much safer for those attending a show.”

Mark Hutton, chairman of the Lancaster Footlights & Grand Theatre charity, added: “These improvements make so much sense. Cars will still be able to pass the theatre in both directions, only in future it will be more slowly and on a priority basis. Creating a new pavement that is wide enough for people to queue, and for pedestrians to be able to pass each other safely, particularly those using prams and wheelchairs, is a very welcome and much needed improvement.”

The Lancaster High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) recently ended and was a four-year programme funded by Historic England and Lancaster City Council which focused on investment into buildings, streets and helping people learn more about the Mill Race area’s heritage.

The Grand Theatre benefitted directly from significant grant support from the programme to undertake extensive repairs and improvements to the exterior of the building.

This has included the removal of failing cement render to the side elevation, structural repairs to the rear, new acoustic stage and loading doors, structural and render repairs to the façade as well as new windows, signage, lighting and display cabinets.

The nearby 113 St Leonard’s Gate (Quality Plus Furniture) also benefited from significant repairs and improvements with grant assistance from the HSHAZ.

Historic England’s Pippa Brown said: “The improvements to the public space outside the Grand Theatre has massively boosted the appearance of the setting for the newly restored historic buildings within Lancaster’s High Street Heritage Action Zone.  Lancaster City Council, the contractors and the local people involved should feel proud of their efforts.”

Last updated: 01 August 2024