Bus plan for city street defended

Plans to open up a pedestrianised street in Leicester to buses have been defended by the city council.

Applegate could see a vehicle pass every three-and-a-half minutes if nearby St Nicholas Place becomes a hub for park and ride services.

But the Civic Society and community groups said it could ruin a peaceful and picturesque part of the city.

The council said the park and rides would benefit the whole city and fears for historic buildings were unfounded.

You have to balance the needs of a modern city with the legitimate concerns over the heritage Andy Thomas, Leicester City Council

The Civic Society has already asked for the council to consider a different route to stop any vibrations from damaging nearby timber framed buildings, including the Guildhall.

Andy Thomas, head of development at the city council, said people had to weigh the benefits of the scheme.

"We have come out with a proposal - it's just a proposal - about how to run an efficient bus service in the city centre.

"And while I recognise this is an attractive part of the city, you have to balance the needs of a modern city with the legitimate concerns over the heritage."

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