£6.1 million has been secured from the Levelling Up Fund and other sources to undertake significant improvement works to the route between the town centre and Turf Moor.
Working with project partners Lancashire County Council and Burnley Football Club, the aim of the Town 2 Turf scheme is to make this area easier and more pleasant, especially for pedestrians. It will mean some big changes to the way things currently look, and a whole host of minor ones too, all of which will add up to major improvements for that part of town.
How does this tie in with other improvements in the town?
These works are part of a package of projects in and around Burnley town centre, funded by the Government’s Levelling Up programme.
The overall package includes three projects:
- Expansion of the Canalside University Campus
- An upgrade to Manchester Road Railway Station
- Town 2 Turf
All three schemes will be connected by off-road, canal-side cycling provision.
Why Town 2 Turf?
The aim is to transform the link between the town centre, which had extensive improvements a few years ago, along Yorkshire Street to Burnley Football Club’s “home” at Turf Moor. This is a popular route, especially on match days, but it is looking jaded and in need of investment. It will form part of a “regeneration corridor” from the Weavers’ Triangle (and all the work connected to the expansion of UCLan) through the shopping centre to the football stadium.
What’s being planned?
The biggest change will be at the junction of Yorkshire Street and Church Street where the current roundabout will be changed to a traffic light junction to improve pedestrian safety and boost links between the town centre and “the Turf”. The changes will also improve traffic flows and “future proof” the area against future developments in the area. There will be public realm improvements to create a pleasant, safe, relaxing place where people can gather.
What can we expect to see?
Clean masonry and repaint metalwork
New crossings prioritise pedestrians and slow down vehicles.
They are common in Europe and are great for walkers and cyclists.
Picture ©Simon Turner Photography
Pavements will be made wider and new pedestrian crossing introduced to improve safety and access for all, especially for those with young children or who are disabled or visually impaired.
This is the best tree for absorbing carbon monoxide helping those with respiratory problems associated with exhaust fumes
Beautiful autumnal tree
LED low light pollution
There will be better street lighting and more landscaped areas and seating, using high-quality materials similar to those in the town centre.
Yorkshire Street aqueduct will be renovated and Centenary Way pedestrian subway will be decommissioned with the approach ramp and steps levelled up and landscaped.
When’s this going to happen?
Work has commenced and the project will complete Summer 2024.