A draft framework to guide the regeneration of the area around Preston Railway Station is now open to public comments.

The draft Preston Station Quarter Regeneration Framework will help landowners and developers, providing a more joined-up guide to future development.

Residents can provide their feedback to help the organisers understand local considerations and finalise the document.

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Councillor David Borrow, the cabinet member for planning and regulation at Preston City Council, said: “This draft framework outlines the huge potential for this major gateway to Preston, to create civic spaces, jobs and city-centre living.

“Key working partnerships with Lancashire County Council, UCLan and stakeholders create broader opportunities for Preston and allow greater regeneration in the city centre.

“I encourage as many people as possible to give their feedback to help shape the future of the Station Gateway to make our city more accessible and inviting to residents, visitors and commuters.”

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The framework covers an area around the railway station and the Fishergate Centre, County Hall and along Corporation Street to the university.

It sets out a blueprint for developing the city to bring jobs and growth and create offices, new commercial and educational opportunities and housing.

Alongside connectivity and infrastructure, the framework also aims to create new landscaping and a high-quality public realm to improve the station quarter as a place to live, work and visit.

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County Councillor Aidy Riggott, the cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, said: “This is a gateway into the city and has significant potential to generate new jobs, prosperity and provide space for quality new homes.

“As well as driving economic growth in Preston, due to its excellent connectivity for rail and bus services, these new opportunities will also be accessible to people and businesses elsewhere in the county.”

The draft document was created by Building Design Partnership Ltd (BDP), working on behalf of Preston City Council, Lancashire County Council and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), working with key stakeholders and major landowners.

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Preston Railway Station is the main rail hub in Lancashire, with several lines providing connections across Lancashire.

They include Blackpool to Colne and Carnforth to Chorley and key destinations, including London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Midlands.

It will also be the main stop for HS2 services in the future, which will see improved links across Great Britain.

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UCLan Deputy Chief Executive Officer Ruth Connor said: “This proposed framework sets out an ambitious vision for the future of Preston.

“The development between the university and the train station will provide many opportunities to blend education, enterprise and commercial activities.”

The draft framework has used input from landowners at stakeholder workshops to understand their intentions and plans for the future – and suggest ideas for improving this part of the city.

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The consultation is open to feedback for four weeks.

To view the document, visit – www.investprestoncity.com/stationgateway

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