Humberstone Gate East

Humberstone Gate East enjoys a square complete with fountain that was built in 1987, the only problem with this is that it has long become a haunt for Pigeons during daytime hours and drunk revellers after hours when the night club close by shuts for the night.

The square to me needs redevelopment as it is currently looking a bit worn down and basic. The fountain is made of blue brick and is flanked by large concrete blocks so is not the most aesthetic in design, while the paving has quite a covering on one side of Pigeon feaces and looks in need of a revamp.

Many of the buildings flanking Humberstone Gate East need some money spent on improving their aesthetic value and some of the buildings stand empty. The taxi rank stands opposite in a Grade II listed building, but many of its windows are taped up after being smashed or damaged.

I personally feel this should stay as a pedestrian square but should have money spent on improving its appearance both for the fountain and pathing, as well as the buildings on each side. This should be done by the council with the support of the local businesses who use the area.

Recent consultations by the council however have looked at a possible change in the area with a possible major plan to remove the square and fountain to create a larger road network for buses thus removing the congestion of buses on Charles Street and the overcrowding at bus stops on Humberstone Gate East. this is a plausible and interesting plan but would mean losing a major feature in the area, this being said it will improve the feel of the area and will mean more visitors will be more aware of the Cultural Quarter.

I agree with Councillor Abdul Osman who said "The bus stops in these areas of the city centre can get very crowded and unpleasant, caused by the sheer number of pedestrians and passengers.

"Longer term, we still have aspirations for a new city centre bus station and these changes would help us move in the right direction."

I do however reserve judgement on the move until further plans are drawn up on how this will work and what will happen with the Grade II listed building occupied by the Taxi service.