Plans are being drawn up to completely pedestrianise the length of Deansgate if its temporary closure is successful.
A report by ‘Streets For All’ showed that the Deansgate area would benefit most if the road was fully pedestrianised creating an area that people would want to live, walk and cycle.
Plans for a part closure were announced last month and this will go ahead between King Street West and Blackfriars Street under a temporary ‘experimental’ traffic order.
It allows for tree planting and other sustainable solutions completely transforming the look, feel, and function
could be used for a variety of events and activities and would stimulate economic growth.
Walking, cycling and public realm improvements could increase retail sales by up to 30% say the council.
Case studies have shown that in other areas where similar public realm changes have taken place, the following benefits have been felt:
Safety changes to Fishergate in Preston city centre resulted in a 49% reduction in casualties from collisions.
In Altrincham town centre, public realm improvements increased footfall by 20%
other case studies also show reduction in vacancy rates (although this is not currently an issue in Deansgate’s prime location).
The document published by the council says the change will turn Deansgate into a high quality destination, boosting regeneration, and social and economic confidence. It will also bring investment and economic growth following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
