Update on progress of major £6.2m St Annes town centre regeneration amid huge development plans
Aim is to create a flowing pedestrian route with additional seating and new lighting.
A key link road in St Annes in the latest to be undergoing a transformation under Phase Three of the town centre improvement project.
The Garden Street project is planned to create a pedestrian-friendly link to Ashton Gardens, with the design protecting existing mature trees while adding new seasonal planting.
A flowing pedestrian route is intended to improve access to bus stops, while additional seating including cube seats designed to accommodate wheelchairs between them will make the street a welcoming place to rest and socialise.
New lighting will also improve safety and visibility in the evenings on the street which connects The Square to Ashton Gardens, the scenic attraction which is the venue the St Annes Carnival celebrations in July, the town’s Music Festival in August and several other events.
The Phase Three work has coincided with the removal of long-standing barriers on the street while the work continues on the transformation of the former JR Taylor store into The Sanctuary hotel and spa at the St Annes Square junction.
Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day
With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe
Phase Two of the Improvement Project - the transformation of the section of St Annes Road West between Clifton Drive and the pier into the Pier Link - is also still ongoing.
That was announced as an 18-week project on it starting in late February.
Phases Two and Three follow the completion last year of Phase One - the £3.13m transformation of St Annes Square, which is now able to host events in the new-look space.
Fylde Council says the second and third phases are intended to continue the look and feel of St Annes Square, creating a consistent flow through the town centre.
The £1.6m Pier Link project is funded by Fylde Council, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Lancashire County Council, while the £1.5m Garden Street project is funded by Fylde Council and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
All the latest news direct to your inbox
Both are being delivered by George Cox and Sons Ltd, the contactor based in Farnworth, near Bolton who successfully completed the Phase 1 St Annes Square improvements.
A Fylde Council spokesperson said: “These projects build brilliantly on the success of St Annes Square, creating accessible, attractive connections that will help our businesses thrive while making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy everything our town centre and seafront have to offer.”