Plans are underway to enhance pedestrian and cyclist access to the Sandgate area of Penrith town centre, with proposals also targeting improvements at the junction of Sandgate and Fell Lane. The initiative aims to address long-standing safety concerns for pedestrians using routes from the Scaws area into Sandgate.
Key ideas include widening pavements and improving crossing opportunities. The existing double mini-roundabout junction, described as confusing for motorists and a barrier for pedestrians, is set to be redesigned to improve safety for all road users. Feedback has highlighted that these safety issues particularly affect those walking or wheeling, including children and parents travelling to and from Beaconside Primary School and Penrith Pre-School nursery on Meeting House Lane.
Led by Westmorland and Furness Council, the project's early designs have been developed with input from key stakeholders. A public consultation will run for five weeks from Monday, 12 October 2026, until 13 November 2026. More information and initial designs are available via an online survey.
An in-person drop-in event will be held at Penrith Library, St. Andrew’s Churchyard, on Wednesday, 14 October, between 1pm and 5pm. Paper copies of the survey will also be available at the library throughout the consultation period.
Construction work is planned to commence in Autumn 2027 and conclude by Spring 2028, following more detailed design work in 2027. The council hopes these improvements will encourage more people to choose active travel for everyday journeys.
“"This is an opportunity to tackle one of the most difficult and confusing locations for pedestrians in Penrith and turn it into a safer, more welcoming gateway into the town centre."
Councillor Adrian Waite highlighted the challenges of the current junction, particularly for parents with young children, older people, and those with mobility aids. He stated the project is part of a wider vision for Penrith to create better links between neighbourhoods, schools, shops, and services, encouraging active travel and reducing reliance on cars for shorter trips.
He added that these improvements, alongside a recently approved 20mph speed limit, have the potential to significantly impact how people move around the town. The council is seeking public feedback on the draft proposals to help shape the final design.
The council has secured funding for the scheme from central Government sources, including Active Travel England and the Department for Transport.
