Somerset Council has committed to reviewing the recently implemented one-way system in Bridgwater town centre, a key component of the town’s £9 million Celebration Mile initiative funded through the government-backed Bridgwater town deal.
Contractor Taylor Woodrow is nearing completion of three sections of the route linking Bridgwater railway station to Northgate Docks. However, the project has faced criticism due to numerous road closures and construction delays that have placed strain on local businesses.
Calls for change have grown louder, spearheaded by local MP Sir Ashley Fox and Conservative group leader Diogo Rodrigues, who have launched a petition opposing the one-way system on East Quay and Salmon Parade.
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The original plans were approved by the Conservative-led Sedgemoor District Council before its dissolution in April 2023. Now, Somerset Council leader Bill Revans, representing the North Petherton division on the Liberal Democrat-led council, has pledged to address concerns voiced across political lines.
Following a site visit on October 20, Revans acknowledged the challenges of implementing a project inherited from the former Conservative-controlled councils and government. He emphasized the need to engage with residents, businesses, the town council, and local councillors to find the best way forward for Bridgwater.
“As we inherited this scheme, it’s our responsibility to make it work,” Revans stated. “There are clearly issues that require attention, and we’re committed to listening to the community and exploring improvements.”
The project’s design was set under binding agreements with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, making immediate alterations complex and potentially delaying completion.
Meanwhile, Councillor Leigh Redman, leader of the Labour opposition group, criticized the poor communication surrounding the Celebration Mile, warning the current one-way layout could worsen traffic in Bridgwater. He remains actively engaged with officials seeking solutions that better serve the town.
In contrast, the Bridgwater Area Cycling Campaign has urged patience, highlighting that such changes often need time to settle and may ultimately benefit the town’s transport network.
Revans referred to successful past traffic interventions—like the pedestrianisation of Fore Street and conversion of High Street to one-way—that initially stirred controversy but now operate smoothly. He stressed that balancing community feedback with practical planning would remain his priority.
Bridgwater has experienced significant traffic disruption over the last 18 months, compounded by the Dunball roundabout upgrade and the construction of a nearby gigafactory. Upcoming developments, including dock regeneration and a new health and social care academy on Salmon Parade set for 2026, underscore the importance of coordinated management to minimize disruption.
“Our goal is to listen, collaborate, and focus on solutions that unite rather than divide,” Revans concluded. “We are dedicated to delivering meaningful, positive change for Bridgwater’s future.”