Granby Street pedestrian improvements enter next phase

WORKS to further improve a busy shopping street and key gateway to Leicester city centre will enter a new phase from next week.

Leicester City Council is carrying out work to widen footpaths and create more space for pedestrians on a section of Granby Street. Improvements to the stretch of road between Dover Street and Chatham Street are now complete.

The second phase of the Granby Street improvements will begin on Monday 5 August, requiring road closures between Chatham Street and Belvoir Street for up to four months. Short, well-signposted diversions will be put in place for motorists and cyclists.

The car park on Alfred Street must also remain closed for up to four weeks from Monday (5 August).

Pedestrians can access everything and all businesses are open as normal.

The improvements will see former pay and display car parks along Granby Street, which have been out of use for more than three years, converted into wider, high-quality footpaths with potential for outdoor seating and to improve the route between the city centre and Leicester railway station.

From Sunday 4 August, additional roadside parking will be created on Chatham Street, York Street and Calais Street.

The works on Granby Street will make a pop-up project introduced in 2020 as part of the council’s response to Covid-19 permanent.

These latest works are part of a wider, ongoing investment to improve the streetscape and retail environment on Granby Street. This includes the refurbishment of the listed buildings of the Grand Hotel and the restoration of the historic shop fronts, supported as part of the council’s successful bid for £1.5m from Historic England for a High Street Heritage Action Zone for the Granby Street and Church Gate conservation areas.

Councillor Geoff Whittle, Deputy Mayor for Environment and Transport, said: “Granby Street is a key gateway to the city centre and a busy shopping street in its own right.

“These ongoing improvements will help create a more attractive route for walkers, cyclists and riders, with more space for shoppers and café-style seating.

“The work will help to further enhance the appearance and experience of the area and support the major heritage investments in listed buildings along the route, making it safer and more welcoming for everyone.”

A final phase of work – currently scheduled for early next year – will also permanently close the intersection of Dover Street and Granby Street to motor vehicles to further improve pedestrian safety. The council plans to create a new turning facility on Dover Street, to maintain general traffic access to nearby businesses and attractions, including The Little Theatre.