Town's road changes recommended for approval

Plans to make changes to roads leading to a popular town ahead of a major development have been recommended for approval.

The Lake District National Park Authority is due to discuss proposals for changes to the A591 and Thwaites Lane as part of the Windermere Gateway Project.

The project also involves developing cycle and pedestrian links between Orrest Head Farm site and Windermere Railway Station.

According to a report prepared for the committee, the plans have received 36 objections which raised concerns over the potential impact on road safety.

The proposed works are needed as part of the transformation of the Orrest Head Farm site, where 250 homes are planned, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

There are plans to reduce the existing A591 speed limit to 30mph on approach to Windermere Gateway, and then reduce it to 20mph.

On Thwaites Lane, a new four-arm junction with an east-west pedestrian and cycleway route is proposed.

Plans also involve creating new junctions from the A591 and Thwaites Lane into the Orrest Head Farm site.

The Windermere Gateway project aims to tackle traffic flow, redevelop the town’s railway station and build affordable homes.

It was devised by The National Trust, Westmorland and Furness Council and the Lake District National Park Authority.

But objectors worry the plan will cause traffic disruption, destroy natural habitats and have an adverse visual impact.

However planning documents state: "Given the information provided to support the application and the conclusions of the Local Highway Authority, I consider that the development would not have an unacceptable impact on highway safety or result in severe cumulative impacts on the road network, subject to recommended conditions."

Members of the development control committee are recommended to approve the plans on 6 November.

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