Exciting plans to create an ‘urban village’ in a neglected part of Preston have been unveiled.

The Stoneygate Masterplan sets out a framework to develop the area and attract investment into the zone between the bus station, London Road, Cardinal Newman College and Stoneygate, and create a vibrant area for residents, businesses and students.

Key historic buildings such as Preston Minster and Cardinal Newman College sit at the heart of the development while empty spaces will be filled with modern buildings, designed to complement their surroundings.

Launching the Stoneygate Masterplan at Cotton Court this morning, Martin Kirkpatrick, of Buttress Architects, said: “We see Stoneygate as the historic heart of this urban village and we want to encourage quality architecture.

“We think it is really important the skyline has the spires and vistas as focal points in the area.”

Read more: How the Stoneygate Masterplan took place and what its author thinks

Buttress Architects have identified 20 buildings or areas of land which are ripe for development and say there is the potential to create 2,000 new homes in the area.

Key to the design is creating better space for pedestrians and cyclists and reducing traffic in the area.

Manchester Road roundabout, and the roads surrounding it, will be adapted to create cycle lanes and better footpaths.

Peter Tooher, executive director of Nexus Planning, said: “Preston has to remain accessible for all types of transport but in the next 20 years, transport will be going through radical change.

“We want to improve air quality and encourage people to take advantage of public transport, walk, cycle or use park and ride schemes.

“What is very striking at the moment in this area is the poor quality of the public realm. Given the environment for pedestrians and cyclists it isn’t surprising people are getting in their cars but we want to change that.

“It’s not about closing the area off to cars or restricting movement – it is about creating a better environment for everybody.”

The area around Percy Street will be developed as a gateway to the city, with cafes and a leisure feel for people stepping off at the bus station.

Further down towards the end of Church Street, the Horrocks Quarter will be a residential area with empty sites developed into attractive and affordable accommodation.

Read more: Empty offices could soon become new flats in Preston city centre

Councillor Peter Moss, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning said: “Stoneygate is a key area of Preston City Centre with huge potential and many opportunities.

“We already have excellent examples of private sector investment in the area, for instance Preston Livery and Carriage Works restoration and Cotton Court – both of which showcase what can be achieved.

“The masterplan is designed to help us raise Stoneygate’s profile, and provide a clear guide to help us meet our ambitions for this area.

“The launch is an important step in the regeneration of Stoneygate. By
working together on the delivery with our key partners we hope it will kickstart and encourage further investment with other private sector bodies.

“I look forward to working collaboratively in bringing the Stoneygate vision to life.”

Peter Tooher added: “Stoneygate offers a huge opportunity for Preston and the masterplan creates the framework whereby the community, local businesses, the City Council, developers and other partners can come together to create a place to be proud of.”

The full Stoneygate Masterplan will be available to view from Monday at www.visitpreston.com.

What do you think of the plans? Leave your comments below.