Nottingham organisations supporting the engagement process for The Island Quarter site gathered for a custodian event to see and discuss the latest progress being made to the landmark development.

The event brought together members of the public and key figures in the areas of sustainability, ecology and transportation, to showcase how the proposals for the 36-acre site have developed in response to their input from sessions held over the last 18 months.

The landscape-led masterplan for the site focuses on connectivity, both throughout the site itself and with the wider cityscape, prioritising sustainable travel and pedestrian access – anchoring the development within Nottingham and the city’s unique heritage.

Christopher Ware, property director at The Conygar Investment Company PLC, said: “The Island Quarter is a development ‘of Nottingham, for Nottingham’ and it’s hugely important that it forms a part of the city’s tapestry, reflecting its unique heritage and personality.

“The masterplan has developed significantly in recent months and much of this evolution has been informed by the progressive discussions from our ongoing engagement efforts with various groups from across the city, making it clear we need to create spaces that are accessible and adaptive to meet changing needs as the masterplan continues to evolve.

“We will be soon commencing the second phase of our engagement process, as we continue to gain valuable input from the public and organisations who are helping to make this project as beneficial as possible to the short and long-term needs for the city.”

Connectivity and sustainable travel are key features of the masterplan, with pedestrian and cycle access prioritised throughout the development’s access hierarchy – as well as linking into the existing city networks to promote easy access and integration into the wider area. The development will also benefit from significant green spaces throughout, with intentions to incorporate significant shading through tree canopy coverage.

Proposals include wider paths, offering ease of use for a variety of different groups, a permeable and accessible approach to pathways allowing pedestrians to feel safe throughout the development, a proactive strategy for cycle storage for those working and living on site as well as visitors. New transport hubs offering active frontages alongside car parking, EV charging and cycle storage and changing facilities will also feature.