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Public Realm works

Improvements across the city

Improvements to the public realm of the city aim to lovingly maintain what is already there and create a pleasant external environment for all to enjoy. Enhancing footpaths and street furniture whilst improving accessibility around the city.

These improvements are taking place all over the city.

St Johns steps

Repair work has taken place on the 200-year-old staircase linking Chester's Roman city walls with St John Street.  Works included the installation of a steel frame which is tied into the connecting wall. The upper landing and some stair treads have been replaced and the hand railings have been repaired.  The stairs re-opened in July 2012.

Roman Gardens 

An extensive programme of improvements has taken place in these historic city centre gardens throughout the spring.  The works, which includes a new path to access the base of the city walls, high quality planting of Roman origin and topiary and a new York stone sitting and display area, follow on from the installation of Roman-themed floor mosaics last year.

Wayfinding Signage 

The railway station welcome sign will be the first of eight wayfinding signs to be installed throughout the city. The signs will help to guide visitors from key entrance points to the city's attractions.

Lighting of the city  

A permanent version of ‘Hryre’, the new artwork created by artist Nayan Kulkarni, is now available to see on the side of St John's Church.  The artwork is incorporates manuscript images and focusing on ideas of ruin, loss, memory and endurance.  The same artist is now working on a permanent illumination of the Eastern ruin at St Johns Church.

Newgate Bridge  

Architectural works are taking place on Newgate Bridge by contractor Maysand.

Amphitheatre  

Works continue at the amphitheatre including additional street lighting and the excavation of archaeological trial pits. 

Castle and Riverfront Zone

Specific improvements have included the rejoining of the walls over Castle Drive, extending the promenade from the Little Roodee towards the Groves and creating a ramped access point between Castle Drive and the Little Roodee car park.Tree maintenance work and refurbishment of the fence and Castle Drive gates is underway.

Visitors enjoying the Roodee seating

Northgate Street

High quality natural surface treatments have been used in keeping with the setting of the street and its proximity to the Roman Walls and listed buildings.

City Road

Enhancements to a street that not only provides a key route between the station and the city centre, but also houses many commercial premises including hotels, retailers and offices.

Racecourse Promenade Upgrading and Enhancement

Improvements have included kerbing, railings, seating, other street furniture, landscaping and a high quality surface finish along the Riverside Promenade route.

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