A new public square featuring trees, seating and event space could be created under plans to transform a key city centre route and improve walking, cycling and public transport links.

Next week Cardiff Council’s cabinet will consider proposals to begin the procurement process for the first phase of the Cardiff to Newport Sustainable Transport Corridor, which includes the creation of a new public square on Kingsway, says Nation Cymru.

The scheme would see Kingsway transformed into a tree-lined boulevard with wider pavements, new cycle routes, step-free crossings and landscaped public space designed to prioritise pedestrians over traffic, and is one part of the overall Cardiff to Newport Sustainable Transport Corridor.

Council leaders say the proposals would create a stronger link between Cardiff city centre and the civic centre, while providing a new space capable of hosting markets, performances and community events.

A key element of the project would be the removal of the Kingsway subway, replacing it with street-level crossings intended to improve accessibility, visibility and safety for pedestrians.

The plans would also introduce rain gardens and sustainable drainage features, alongside increased tree planting aimed at improving air quality and helping cool the urban environment during periods of hot weather.

The Kingsway improvements form part of the first phase of a wider transport scheme stretching from Cardiff city centre to the city’s eastern boundary and ultimately towards Newport.

Phase 1a would deliver a new cycleway between the city centre and the West Grove junction, forming the first section of a route that will eventually extend to St Mellons and beyond. The route will replace the temporary “pop-up” cycleway currently in place and connect with existing cycling infrastructure across the city.

Cardiff Council says the new public space will prioritise people rather than traffic by introducing step-free crossings, wide footways and new cycle routes to encourage walking and cycling as well as rain gardens and drainage features integrated into the design. The new road layout and public space will create a seamless link between the city centre and the civic centre, resulting in an event-ready public space for markets, performances and gatherings.

Councillor Dan De’Ath, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Strategic Planning and Transport, said:

“The first phase of this scheme will be an important step towards significantly improving Kingsway and creating sustainable transport options from Cardiff to the eastern boundary of the city. We must build the infrastructure needed to make sustainable travel more attractive, including walking, cycling and public transport, to encourage people to leave their cars at home. This will support healthier lifestyles and help tackle climate change.”

(Picture: cardiff.moderngov.co.uk, via Google Earth)