Hull City Council has launched a six-week engagement exercise to provide information and seek feedback from the public and other stakeholders about a series of changes to improve road safety in the Lowgate area of the city centre.
As part of its highway’s capital programme, the council is looking to:
- widen the footway outside of O’Leary’s public house at Lowgate / Scale Lane to reduce the width of the carriageway to make crossing easier and create a lay-by for the taxi rank;
- provide a new signalised crossing facility at Silver Street / Scale Lane;
- widen the footpath at various locations on Market Place and Lowgate; and,
- make the wider Old Town area into a 20mph zone, with upgraded variable message signs installed.
In addition to these preventative measures, consideration is also being given to removing the existing Wilberforce Drive zebra crossing and replacing it with a signalised pedestrian crossing on Wilberforce Drive, adjacent to Guildhall Road. The alternative would be to leave the existing zebra crossing in its current location.
The proposals have been designed by Pell Frischmann Consulting Engineers Limited and were developed in response to a request from the city’s Coroner after a pedestrian fatality in August 2021.
Securing public feedback on the designs is an important milestone and will help the council decide on the final layout.
The scheme is expected to start on site in summer 2025.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transportation, roads and highways at Hull City Council, said: “When it comes to road safety, the council takes its responsibilities very seriously and is determined to improve the city’s infrastructure to ensure the safety of pedestrians, motorists and all members of the travelling public.
“By reducing vehicle speeds, widening the footpaths and providing better crossing facilities, not only are we improving safety, but we are providing an accessible walking environment for everyone in the community.
“This scheme also aligns with our broader community plan for Hull to create safe and welcoming neighbourhoods as well as making the city healthier, fairer and more environmentally friendly.”
View and comment on the scheme plans
In addition to being able to view and comment on the plans online, the council will also be hosting a drop-in session at Trinity Market on Thursday 20 February, from 10am-6.30pm.
