Revamp plans for Alnwick bus station get the green light

Planning permission for initial works has been approved by Northumberland County Council.

The project is set to be delivered in two phases and will firstly include the repair and replacement of hardstanding, reconfiguration of bus parking, improved pedestrian routes and seating and landscaping.

North East Combined Authority has committed £1.8m to the project.

A second phase is planned and currently being designed with funding support from Northumberland County Council to then transform and update the bus station building itself.

The proposals are part of the wider Borderlands Place Programme for Alnwick which also including the Bailiffgate Museum and Gallery project at Northumberland Hall, and investment in the Cobbles.

Cllr Martin Swinbank, Alnwick Hotspur ward, said: “We are pleased to see these substantial investments in the Cobbles and bus station, and also the Northumberland Hall as it is refurbished to become the new home for the Bailiffgate Museum.

"All of these projects will help enhance our historic town and help keep the town centre thriving, whilst improving accessibility and providing more green space.

"There will be some inevitable disruption, but please be assured we are and will be, working with all partners and stakeholders directly affected, to minimise this. More information on sequencing of works and timelines will be shared, just as soon as it is available.”

The bus station scheme involves the introduction of 25 trees and rain garden to enhance and increase the overall greenery and welcoming feel of the area.

Peter Reed of Alnwick Civic Society said: “Improvements to the bus station are long overdue and welcome. These will improve arrival in Alnwick and enhance the townscape in a part of the Alnwick Conservation Area where the condition of the public realm falls below the standard expected.”

However, he also notes that ‘details should not be overlooked in enthusiasm for the project’ and has called for clarity on any plans for the bus station interior.

He explains: “The application description refers to the ‘bus station area’ but pre-application feedback shows that the public finds the interior of the present building unwelcoming, dark, messy, windy and cold.

“The interior of the building is clearly in need of an upgrade. This proposal includes some elements that fall within the building, but a more general upgrading of the building does not form part of this application. Without further improvements to the interior we believe the public will be disappointed that their principal concerns have not been addressed.”

Planning officers, delegating approval, stated: “The design adopts a coordinated palette of materials including Yorkstone paving, Yorkstone setts, Whinstone setts, Whinstone self-binding gravel, reclaimed cobbles and timber seating, together with decorative timber screening.

"These materials are consistent with those used in recent public realm improvements at Narrowgate, the Market Place and the approved Cobbles project, creating continuity with the wider town centre.

“The proposed planting, including new trees, ornamental beds and rain gardens, will soften the appearance of the site and enhance visual amenity over time.”