Plans for a crossing that would change the face of both a key approach to Carlisle Castle and one of the city’s busiest roads are poised to take a step forward.

The pedestrian crossing proposed for Castle Way is intended to provide a better link between the city centre and one of the main tourist attractions in the county.

This breaking of the traffic barrier between the castle and the city’s shopping and leisure heartland is aimed at correcting an obstacle put in the way when the route became a dual carriageway in 1973.

The plans were conditionally approved by a committee at Cumbria County Council late last year. Now it is set to go before councillors at Carlisle City Council.

A council spokeswoman said: “A planning application has now been submitted and it is under consideration.”

The city council is behind the plan. It is claimed the crossing, between Tullie House and the castle, will boost business and tourism.

The authority believes making it even easier to get over Castle Way will make it more attractive for people visiting the castle to get into the city centre – and vice versa.

This would enhance the pull for tourists and for trade prospects, particularly for businesses in the Castle and Fisher streets area.

It would be in addition to the Irishgate footbridge and Millennium underpass.

Former council deputy leader Elsie Martlew, who represented Castle ward until earlier this year, championed the plan at its unveiling.

Speaking about the proposal in the wake of the latest move, she told The Cumberland News: “It is better late than never.

“It will reconnect the castle to the city – and not only the castle but the park as well.

“It will open it up and get far more footfall down Castle Street, Abbey Street and that area.”

Mrs Martlew said Tullie House museum and Carlisle Cathedral would also benefit from the passing visitors to the castle.

“It will just help people cross what is a very difficult road,” added Mrs Martlew.

“There is a 30mph speed limit on Castle Way now so I don’t think it will have much effect on the flow of traffic.

“It will be good for the city, for the economy and for people’s convenience.”

Road experts have estimated that the average delay to traffic using Castle Way because of the crossing would be about 10 seconds per vehicle.

Traffic lights would co-ordinate with others in the area to reduce the potential for delays.

The level of traffic on the road has also fallen in recent years following the opening of the western bypass.