Bridgwater Town Council has taken a firm stance against the ongoing traffic alterations under the Celebration Mile project, calling for urgent action to resolve issues negatively affecting local residents.
During a full council meeting on Thursday, December 18, Bridgwater councillors passed a motion urging Somerset Council to promptly review and amend the current traffic strategy. The motion was introduced by Cllr Brian Smedley, leader of Bridgwater Town Council, who emphasized the need for decisive intervention.
“In light of the recent Somerset Council meeting, it’s clear that our community agrees on the need to reassess traffic direction along East Quay and Salmon Parade,” said Cllr Smedley. “We must now intensify efforts to secure a timely resolution involving key council officers and senior members who can collaborate with partners and act in the best interests of Bridgwater residents.”
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The motion received strong support from Deputy Conservative Leader Cllr Diogo Rodrigues, who highlighted the importance of acknowledging when decisions have unintended consequences. “While decision-makers aim to enhance our communities, when a choice negatively affects residents so evidently, it’s critical to admit mistakes and take corrective steps,” Cllr Rodrigues explained. He also pointed out that the motion reflects the views of over 5,800 residents who signed a petition opposing the current traffic setup.
Key demands outlined in the motion include restoring parking facilities on Salmon Parade and reconsidering the traffic flow to reinstate two-way traffic on both Salmon Parade and East Quay. Councillors are also calling for improved pedestrian safety measures at the boxed junction east of Town Bridge and stricter enforcement of parking restrictions in Eastover.
To ensure lasting solutions, the council is pushing for a Town Development Forum meeting, bringing transport planners and local representatives together to agree on sustainable traffic arrangements for Bridgwater’s town centre.