Public invited to share ideas for Windermere station improvements before survey closes

Residents and visitors still have an opportunity to influence the future of Windermere station as feedback is being sought until 19th July.

Westmorland and Furness Council, along with consultants Mott MacDonald, have been gathering input on various design options for the station's development as part of the Windermere Gateway project.

Survey and engagement

Earlier this month, drop-in sessions held on 3rd and 4th July presented three designs that explore changes to the station building, forecourt, public spaces, and wayfinding. The proposals also address methods to bolster active travel options and facilitate better connections for buses, taxis, and pedestrians while preserving Windermere’s heritage and local character.

Council-appointed consultants Mott MacDonald have crafted these concepts to enhance the station area into a more welcoming arrival point for the Lake District, a vital tourist destination. Feedback from the survey will be crucial in developing a preferred plan as the council moves forward.

Vision for Windermere

The project's vision includes transforming Windermere station into a vibrant transport hub with improved connections for all forms of travel, complemented by upgraded public spaces and signage. The council's Local Transport Grant is funding the design work with approximately £150,000.

Informed by the feedback, a masterplan will be created to secure investment for these proposed improvements, building upon the Windermere Gateway Transport Infrastructure Supplementary Planning Document adopted by the Lake District National Park Authority in 2021.

Collaborative efforts

The Windermere Gateway project is a collaborative effort by Westmorland and Furness Council, Lake District National Park Authority, National Trust, and developer Urban Splash. It aims for a strategic approach to infrastructure, opening opportunities for new homes, jobs, and transport connections in the area.

Councillor Adrian Waite, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Transport, expressed gratitude to those participating in the survey, stating it would help "finalise the concept masterplan" crucial for securing funding and revitalising the station area to create "a world-class welcome to the Lake District."

Those interested can still take part in the online survey and contribute their views on the future of Windermere station before the deadline.