Broadgate Gardens reopens with new seating, planting and viewing platform

Broadgate Gardens paths resurfaced Pic: Environment Agency — The Broadgate Gardens paths have been resurfaced Pic: Environment Agency

Broadgate Gardens has reopened with new seating, fresh planting and a restored viewing platform overlooking the River Ribble.

The work at the junction of Broadgate at the bottom of Fishergate Hill is part of the £54.7m Preston and South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme.

More than 450 shrubs and trees were chosen for planting to create interest all year round – plus four types of grasses and a mix of spring-flowering bulbs – to help support wildlife, including bees and birds.

Environment Agency worker inspecting planting at Broadgate Gardens Pic: Environment Agency

Mia Hanson, from the Environment Agency, said: “Climate change is causing wetter weather. We identified the existing flood defence walls on Broadgate, built in the 1920s, were reaching the end of their design life. Investment was needed to replace and extend the defences.

“Once complete, the Preston and South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme will reduce flood risk for thousands of local homes and businesses.

“The updated Broadgate Gardens are part of our mission to ‘Create Better Places’ – there are also future plans for a small wetland at Ribble Sidings; while the entrance to Miller Park will also get a makeover.”

Councillor Carol Henshaw, Cabinet member for climate change at Preston City Council – which owns the land – said: “As a local resident, I’m absolutely delighted Broadgate Gardens is re-opening and looking fantastic!

“The whole area, with its community orchard and viewing platform is a real asset to the local community. It’s a lovely public space to sit, take some time out, maybe engage in a bit of yoga or tai chi, and is another milestone in the larger flood defence scheme for the area.”

Broadgate Gardens before the revamp Pic: Environment Agency

Finishing work at Broadgate Gardens completes phase 1A of the scheme along Broadgate on the north side of the river. This stretch also includes a new flood defence wall made up of more than 180 new wall units, while the adjoining shared footpath and cycleway – part of the Guild Wheel – was resurfaced.

Works further down, along Riverside, continue. This stretch will see the entrance to Miller Park be updated so that flood gates can be installed.

On the other side of the river, in South Ribble, the height of the existing embankment has been raised. Work on the revetment has been carried out, and the flood defence wall will feature glass panels on top to preserve views.

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