Dear Cllr Bick,
Thank you for your project application idea, the project concept would contribute towards improving access to the local environment. This project was taken to West Central Area Committee 16/11/2023 for consideration within the funding and criteria for EIP area funding. Following West Central Area Committee consideration and Officer recommendations and further investigation this area project was unfortunately not approved. The key reasons for this where the Asset owner is not in support of creating an access as this would impact upon the Strategic Management of the space which outweigh the benefits of the suggested access point. As you know this project was discussed at Committee and following further investigation with the Green Space Managers, they advised Cllr Sam Carling of concerns. As per John Richard's email in December Cllr Sam Carling is more than happy to discuss this further if required.
Regards
Neighbourhood Access to Christs Pieces
From "Environmental Improvement Programme 2023-24: New bidding round"
Go to the project
Creation of a formal entry onto Christs Pieces through the continuous fence along Emmanuel Road to recognise the strong 'desire line' around the end of Earl Street and Victoria Street; and the provision of a soft surface path connecting to the existing path network on the green space. Repeated breakages of the fence in this area and the erosion of the grass for informal paths, indicate that accommodation of the desire line will be a tidier and more functional solution. Such a solution has long been an aspiration of residents in the area who have difficulty in clambering over or under the fence to enable an otherwise logical walk across the open space into the city centre via Christs Lane, enjoying the pleasant green environment.
The precise location of the entry point and the soft surface path need to be determined with officer advice, to avoid compromising the wildflower meadows.
The bid is supported by Christs Pieces Residents association and Market Ward Councillors.
Official updates
Last update: 19 January 2024
Posted on 19 January 2024
Comments(7)
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Profile of Caroline Fernandez
Posted by:Caroline Fernandez
3 years ago
I live in Earl Street and I’m disabled, I use crutches and occasionally a wheelchair. Obviously I can’t get over the single wooden railing. Walking is incredibly painful for me and I’ve been very grateful that the fence had gaps that I could go through recently.
I agree that a path near the bowling green would be less invasive. I’ve read the other comments and as always it’s all about fit people who can walk, run and cycle round Cambridge, no thoughts about the disabled and elderly.
Profile of Margaret Metaxas
Posted by:Margaret Metaxas
3 years ago
I would strongly support one entry point to Christ's Pieces at the end of Victoria Street. This could meander close to the bowling green so as not to unbalance the beautiful green area that is offered. We residents shouldn't be prevented from walking through the area when outsiders using the Lion Yard Car Park and The Grafton Car Park, as well as those coming in on the Park and Ride and general buses, waltz along the paths and enjoy "our" park! It appears a tad punitive for local residence if you ask me.
Profile of Jane Veress
Posted by:Jane Veress
3 years ago
I would rather keep this area free of footfall, bikes and noise. It is great for quiet contemplation especially if flowers are planted again in flowerbeds. We can always use the existing paths or the road into Drummer Street. Too many paths cut through this wonderful green central park will unbalance it. The fence is to encourage us to use the existing paths and prevent exactly this. Next request will be for yet another pedestrian crossing to get across to it!!
Profile of Richard Buxton
Posted by:Richard Buxton
3 years ago
Good idea, though keep it at the bowling green end as (I believe) that is the most obvious "desire line", in practice convenient for people aiming for Parker St. etc.
Posted by:unknown author
3 years ago
Just walk around the fence, we all need to get our 10,000 steps a day
Profile of Nick McCave
Posted by:Nick McCave
3 years ago
A good, and needed, proposal. The fence along Emmanuel Rd needs to be mended and free-form entry points discouraged with provision of proper designated entry points.
Posted by:unknown author
3 years ago
@Nick McCave proper designated entry points already exist. You may not agree with their location, but they exist.