Creating a greener, more accessible Nelson

Published Wednesday, 15th November 2023

Plans to make Nelson more accessible and safer for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers by improving traffic flow in the town are set to be unveiled.

Accessible Nelson

 

And Pendle Borough Council is encouraging anyone who lives, works, visits or studies in Nelson, to have their say on the proposals.

Accessible Nelson is one of seven projects part-funded by the £25m Nelson Town Deal – a 10-year plan for a brighter Nelson.

Improvements may also be delivered as part of Lancashire County Council’s Levelling Up East Lancashire programme and proposals are being developed.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, explained: “Accessible Nelson is all about transforming our town centre and improving routes into and through Nelson.

“Our aim is to extend the high-quality environment we already have in the heart of the town whilst making routes safer and more pedestrian and cycle friendly.

“By easing congestion to keep a steady flow of traffic we can create a better balance for all and reduce carbon emissions.”

The proposals include:

  • creating attractive main gateways into Nelson, including widening footpaths
  • tree planting and designs which create a greener and more inviting town centre
  • better junctions at Leeds Road/Scotland Road, Railway Street/Broadway, Sagar Street/Holme Street to improve traffic flow
  • improvements to junctions for cyclists and pedestrians

Two community engagement sessions are taking place this month so local people can find out more.

  • Drop-in event - Wednesday 22 November at Nelson Library on Market Street, 3pm – 6.30pm
  • Microsoft Teams - Wednesday 6 December, 5.30pm – 7pm book your place via www.pendle.gov.uk/accessiblenelson

Stephen Barnes, Chair of Nelson Town Deal Board, added: “Please have a look at the plans and tell us what you think.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to help us improve the routes into and through Nelson town centre.

“Through the Accessible Nelson project we want to keep a steady flow of traffic and create a better balance for all users.”

County Councillor Aidy Riggott (Euxton, Buckshaw & Astley) - Lancashire County Council, added: "This is just one example of how working in partnership will lead to direct benefits for people in Lancashire – in this case improving the traffic flow for all road users who travel in and around Nelson town centre.

“We are keen to hear from as many local people, businesses and organisations as possible. These views and insights will help us to shape and inform our plans for Levelling Up East Lancashire moving forward.”

Information about how people's views have shaped the plans and how they will support the work being done to develop the Levelling Up East Lancashire projects will be shared in spring 2024.