Status: Preliminary design
Funding: Local Transport Grant, Consolidated Active Travel Fund (CATF), Eden Road Safety Fund
Policy Framework: Penrith Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP)
Project description
The scheme provides accessibility improvements at a key junction of Sandgate and Fell Lane, and along adjoining routes. The scheme connects the Fell Lane to Scaws residential area of Penrith, with Sandgate as a gateway to Penrith Town Centre.
The scheme aims to make it easier and safer to walk, wheel, or cycle to Beaconside School, Penrith Bus Station, and the town centre.
The route is also sited on two sections of the National Cycle Network (NCN). Road safety benefits will be delivered for all road users.
The scheme will support and complement the new 20mph zone in Penrith being implemented in 2026.
The improvements will include the following:
- an improved and safer junction at the current two mini-roundabouts on Sandgate and Fell Lane
- safer and more accessible crossing locations
- wider footways
- new zebra crossings
- landscaping improvements in Sandgate
Timescales
Timescales for the preliminary design stage include:
- design development (February to June 2026)
- stakeholder engagement (February to June 2026)
- public consultation (June 2026)
- completion of the design (July 2026)
Future timescales are expected to be:
- detailed design work (Autumn 2026 to Winter 2027)
- construction (Spring 2027)
Consultation and engagement
We will engage with stakeholders to inform the development of the design. This engagement will take place between February and June 2026.
Public consultation will take place over several weeks in June 2026. This will include an in-person consultation event in Penrith and an online consultation. The public will be able to look at the designs and provide feedback via a questionnaire.
We will publish a Public Consultation Report in Summer 2026. Feedback from the public consultation will inform further design work.