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05
Mar
Exclusive: City centre roads could be pedestrianised in new vision for Ripon
A new vision for Ripon, which could involve an expansion of its cafe culture and creation of a 'more continental feel' in the city centre, was supported at last night's full council meeting.
It follows Ripon Cathedral's decision to withdraw its plans for construction of an annexe on Minister Gardens - a move that was noted at the start of the meeting.
City council leader Andrew Williams received unanimous support from fellow councillors for a package of proposals that would include the pedestrianisation of Kirkgate and Market Place South and provision of a straight pedestrian route into Minster Gardens, where new decorative lighting would be installed.
All of the proposals would be the subject of detailed public consultation and liaison with North Yorkshire Council, which, as the highways authority, would need to consult with all interested parties about the pedestrianisation proposals and removal of the 'bind alley' section of the path between Cathedral Car Park and the gardens.
To pay for the decorative lighting, Cllr Williams, recommended that the city council provide £10,000 from its capital reserves.
He said:
Minster Gardens.
This area can be dark and dreary at times and the installation of lighting would make it so much better for our residents and visitors to the city who value this space.
Along with the pedestrianisation, of Kirkgate and Market Place South, we would see improved flow of people around the city and increased dwell time.
Under the proposals, Market Place South, which runs in front of Ripon Town Hall, would be pedestrianised
Cllr Williams added:
At this stage, these are only proposals and it may be that through consultation we discover that people don't want them, but we need to start the debate on the ways in which we can give the city a new lease of life.
Among those to support the proposals was Cllr Barbara Brodigan, who said:
I have met with businesses on Kirkgate to discuss their calls for pedestrianisation and, as we have seen around the Market Square, Claro Lounge, Wetherspoon's and Caffe Nero are already benefiting from having tables and chairs ouside their premises.
By expanding Ripon's cafe culture we can create more of a relaxed continental feel that will add to the attraction of the city as a destination and be good for the local economy.
The proposals for Minster Gardens have been welcomed by the 'Save Our Trees' community group which successfully opposed the cathedral's annexe plans.
A spokespersperson, who attended last night's meeting, told the Stray Ferret:
We applaud the efforts and proposals from Cllr Williams and the city council, which wholeheartedly supported this vision.
The proposals to enhance and breathe life into the community space of Kirkgate Park, could create a more positive experience for residents and tourists alike.
Enhancements such as additional public lighting that could link into other public lighting around the city, could see increased flow on walkways.
It is wonderful to note that these proposals could begin the debate and engagement about how the city could have a new, vibrant, lease of life.
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