New pedestrian and cycle routes planned for Windermere – as developer invites local people to have their say
Award winning regeneration company Urban Splash
has announced it will host a public consultation on 5 March, inviting feedback
on initial plans for Orrest Head Farm – part of the
Windermere Gateway Project.
Orrest Head Farm is a nine-hectare National Trust site adjacent to Windermere train station. National Trust appointed Urban Splash as its preferred development partner in 2019, tasking them with the transformation of the site with the support of key stakeholders such as the Lake District National Park, Westmorland and Furness Council, Windermere Town Council, Network Rail, Booths, Lakeland, and numerous other local businesses.
The initial consultation focuses on proposed highways improvements including the creation of a new pedestrian route, enhanced cycle connections, and enhancements to the A591 and Thwaites Lane. Joe Woolley of Urban Splash explained: "This consultation gives us a valuable opportunity to engage with the local community as we work together to shape the future of Windermere.
"Through collaboration with local people, partners and key stakeholders, we can develop a new community that fulfils the needs of all – starting with connectivity, accessibility, and sustainable transportation options for the long-term benefit of Windermere."
As a well-established developer rooted in the North West – one recognised for its expertise in placemaking – Urban Splash has been at the forefront of creating vibrant communities for over three decades, sensitively restoring listed buildings and historical places. Joe continued: "This consultation also allows us to introduce Urban Splash to the local community, demonstrating our passion for placemaking and showcasing our track record in creating sustainable environments across the region and beyond.
“We are dedicated to fostering places where people can live, work, and thrive, and we look forward to sharing that with the people of Windermere."
Orrest Head is a pivotal component of the Lake District National Park Authority's ambitious Windermere Gateway project, where new developments will bolster the future residential and employment landscape in Windermere. Mike Innerdale, regional director for the National Trust in the North added: "We are genuinely excited about the possibilities presented by this site – one that we are committed to developing in a sustainable and aesthetically sensitive manner – preserving the heritage of the Lake District and nurturing a community that is in harmony with the natural surroundings and local character.
“Urban Splash has a proven track record of honouring heritage while creating places that are suitable for the future and we look forward to working through this planning process with them.”
“We urge the local residents to participate in the consultation and share their perspectives as we collectively embark on shaping a promising future for this corner of the Lake District."
The public consultation will take place on Tuesday 5 March at The Marchesi Centre, Holly Rd, Windermere LA23 2AF from 2.30pm to 7.00pm. A consultation website will be live from Wednesday 6th March via which those unable to attend in person can also offer their feedback. Urban Splash has also established an email address via which local people can submit their queries: consultation@urbansplash.co.uk.
