Front Street: Access and longer term aspirations
Knowing how visitors are able to use the road within the precinct is currently complicated and confusing. The function of the road changes throughout the day, and also differs on different days as shown below.
Phase 2 does not propose any fundamental change to these arrangements. However we are keen to look at ways to provide a more accessible space and explore what longer term changes could look like.
Who can use the road within the high street
| 24 hour timeline | Pedestrian | Emergency access | Loading and unloading | Blue Badge Parking | Cycling | All vehicles - drive through | All vehicles - parking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning 8.00am til 10.30am (Monday to Friday) 8.00am til 9.30am (Saturday) |
Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | No access |
| Day 10.30am til 4.00pm (Monday to Friday) 9.30am til 4.00pm (Saturday) |
Access | Access | No access | No access | No access | No access | No access |
| Afternoon 4.00pm til 6.00pm (Monday to Saturday) |
Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | No access |
| Night 6.00pm til 8.00am |
Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access |
| Sunday | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access | Access |
Supporting longer term aspirations
The Future of Acomb Front Street Study 2021 set out bold ambitions and ideas, and recognised that the level of ambition would take considerable time and resources to fully implement. Phase 2 focuses on understanding what community priorities can be achieved in the short term within the current time and funding constraints, that do not prohibit longer term aspirations.
Street with priority for people
You said: Some people have expressed their a wish to see the high street designed with priority for people, not cars, whilst some businesses and residents oppose further pedestrianisation as the area is required for deliveries to local businesses.
Phase 2 will deliver positive steps towards achieving a less vehicle dominated space whilst also keeping options open to potentially progress pedestrianisation in the future, subject to further consultation and resources.
Longer term: Consider outcomes of phase 2 feasibility study (link to page 5), undertake further consultation with businesses, identify next steps and further funding.
Adopt privately owned land
A wide strip of the pavement in the shopping area between the traffic gate and the Gateway Centre is privately owned.
You said: Open up community space, including bringing all paving up to a satisfactory standard.
Longer term: This would enable the community to use the open space in a more permanent way.
Improve connection to Explore Library
You said: Better connect the high street with the older village and Explore library.
Longer term: Forge stronger pedestrian links between shopping area and library, such as additional crossing points and more pedestrian priority.