Liberal Democrats call for new Gosforth High Street solution after proper consultation with community and businesses

Following the announcement of further changes to the temporary scheme on Gosforth High Street, local Liberal Democrats are calling for the council to finally engage in proper consultation with the local community on the permanent future of the high street.

Liberal Democrats across Gosforth have repeatedly raised concerns around inaccurate and insufficient signage, confusing road layouts, lack of congestion mitigations and the absence of meaningful consultation with the local residents and businesses that rely on the High Street.

Colin Ferguson, Gosforth Liberal Democrats Councillor, said: "Gosforth High Street is a key district shopping hub and every resident we have spoken to sees the need for a healthier, more accessible and more desirable experience for shoppers and businesses."

"The minor changes being made are a step in the right direction, and we have been pleased to bring residents' concerns to the council in a way that has affected positive change. However the council must now engage fully with businesses and residents to ensure the permanent future for our high street has the Gosforth community at its heart."

"We are proposing that a local working group, such as the one set up to reassess the Blue House roundabout, decides the priorities and finalises the future plans for the high street, ensuring community and business interests are taken into account. Local people are best placed to understand the unique features of their area and the council needs to harness this knowledge to bring about the best solution for our High Street."

"We have already been approached by a number of community groups and local businesses and stand ready to facilitate this vital conversation, if the council are willing."