Malton transformation plan ideas sought from community

North Yorkshire Council is devising a masterplan for Castlegate, Castle Gardens, Orchard Fields and Lady Spring Wood – with the public invited to share their ideas.

It is hoped the new vision will create an improved street linking the two towns, with better access to the green spaces and the River Derwent.

Cllr Keane Duncan, who represents Norton, said: “Castlegate is the key route between Malton and Norton, but it’s seen as an unwelcoming corridor blighted by congestion, flooding and dilapidated buildings.

“It is in desperate need of some TLC and this latest study will develop key steps to improve the area and unlock new opportunities.

“There is immense potential to create a really positive connection between the towns, for example by introducing new planting, paving, signs and artwork on Castlegate.

“There is also the opportunity to better link the street to the nearby green spaces, making these more accessible, adding facilities and improving links to the river.

“While plans are at an early stage, this work could represent a catalyst to the regeneration of this key route in the heart of our towns.

“I would encourage people to share their views and ideas with the council.”

The main purpose of the Castlegate and Greenspace Regeneration Scheme is to create an “economically and socially vibrant area that creatively showcases the green spaces that lie beyond”.

The council commissioned the feasibility study to provide costings and a delivery plan for a programme of regeneration.

Two drop-in sessions are due to take place on Wednesday, March 12, where more information will be available.

The first will be held at Norton Town Council in Commercial Street from 8.30am to 1pm. The second will be held at Malton Town Council in Newgate from 12pm to 4.30pm.

Ideas for improving the Castlegate and surrounding area can also be shared by email to regeneration.north-east@northyorks.gov.uk before Monday, March 31.