Plea for fixes to 'difficult confusing' junction

A plea has been issued for help to fix "one of the most difficult and confusing locations for pedestrians" in a town.

Westmorland and Furness Council wants to tackle "long-standing issues" for people walking from the Scaws area into Sandgate in Penrith and has asked users to take part in a five-week consultation.

The council proposed to remove Sandgate's "complicated double mini-roundabout", which it said was a barrier for pedestrians, confused motorists and put people off trying to cross the road at the junction.

A public consultation runs from Monday, while the hope was to start construction work in autumn 2027 and complete it by spring 2028.

Councillor Adrian Waite said it provided an "opportunity to tackle one of the most difficult and confusing locations for pedestrians in Penrith and turn it into a safer, more welcoming gateway into the town centre".

He described residents having "challenges" crossing at the Sandgate and Fell Lane double mini-roundabout, particularly parents with young children, older people and anyone with a pushchair, wheelchair or mobility aid.

"We want to make it much easier and safer for people to get into town on foot, by wheelchair or by bike," he said.

An event for residents to look at the designs and ask questions will be held at Penrith Library on 14 October.

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