AN UPDATE on an ambitious plan to catalyse a transformation of a South Lakeland town is to be given to the public. 

The Kendal Vision was first put forward by partnership body Kendal Futures two years ago.

It is a blueprint for Kendal that it is hoped can be used as a mandate to attract investment to the town. 

Since its publication, a number of 'priority projects' have been identified and developed. These fall into two categories:

Project A - town centre regeneration

  • Creating a third campus for Kendal College at the Westmorland Shopping Centre
  • Regeneration of Kendal's market hall
  • Regeneration of Market Place

Project B - riverside corridor

  • Enhancement of the riverside 'active travel route' from Abbot Hall, along Waterside and up Kent Street 

An SLDC spokesman said the Vision document had contributed to plans, announced earlier this year, for improvements to the upper section of Stramongate, where it meets Blackhall Road. 

READ MORE: Planned street improvements 'will benefit businesses, residents and visitors'

The project is to include a new, raised footpath across the mouth of the junction. 

Mark Cropper, chairman of Kendal Futures, said 2,000 people contributed views to help shape the Vision document. 

"Since then, despite the challenges of the pandemic, work has been progressing on multiple fronts with our partners to develop new initiatives and ensure Kendal’s future success," he said.

“The Vision provides long-term inspiration for change in Kendal and, while there’s still a lot to do, we’ve made a great start and we’re looking forward to telling the community all about it."

Cllr Robin Ashcroft, SLDC portfolio holder for economy, culture and leisure, said: “The priority projects embody SLDC's ambitions to attract external funding and deliver critical infrastructure, use culture and built heritage and our unique selling points to enhance our communities and develop town centres which are attractive and accessible for living, working and exploring."

READ MORE: Blueprint for Kendal includes new railway stop and retail quarter

Since publication of the Vision, a Kendal Town Team – comprising South Lakeland District Council, Kendal Futures, Kendal Town Council and Cumbria County Council – has been formed to drive projects on.

Residents will be able to find out more about the Vision's progress in Kendal Town Hall's town council chamber between 10am and 3pm on July 8. A presentation is to take place at 11am.