The proposals will see 49 new trees planted, as well as two subways beneath a roundabout removed
A major redevelopment of a city centre landscape is set to get under way. The first phase of the Peterborough Station Quarter project is due to start before the end of March.
Peterborough City Council asked residents for their views on plans to fell 35 trees on the Queensgate roundabout, to start the first phase of the scheme, known as City Link. The work is expected to create a modern, welcoming gateway between the railway station and Cowgate, according to the council.
The two subways that run underneath the Queensgate roundabout will be removed and the landscape will be ‘enhanced’. As part of the consultation, officers reviewed whether any of the 35 trees could be retained.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Unfortunately, this will not be possible due to engineering requirements that are necessary to construct the new footpaths and make improvements to the landscaping to transform the area. The landscaping proposals will see 49 new trees planted and there are also plans for seven additional small trees/shrubs as well as a rain garden and Gabion walls.
“It was suggested in the consultation that more replacement trees should be planted. Although this will not be possible within the roundabout, the council is looking at other areas close by where additional trees could be planted.”
Cllr Mohammed Farooq, cabinet member for growth and regeneration, said: “I would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation for their valuable feedback and we are now looking forward to seeing this vital work begin soon. I can also assure residents that we will continue to increase the tree canopy in the city as we move forwards.
“The Station Quarter project is going to be a real game-changer for our city and this first phase of work will be highly beneficial. Whilst the station is only a 10-minute walk away from the city centre, it’s very disconnected and not easy to navigate, with poorly lit pavements and walkways. City Link will transform this area into a much brighter, safer and accessible route.”
The Station Quarter is a regeneration project being delivered by Peterborough City Council in partnership with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Network Rail, Platform 4, and LNER. It follows a successful bid to the Government for funding towards the project.