Bridgwater Town Council has taken a firm stand against the ongoing issues caused by the Celebration Mile road scheme, urging Somerset Council to act swiftly to address the concerns of local residents.
During a full council meeting on Thursday, December 18, the town council passed a motion calling for an urgent review and resolution of the project. The initiative aims to tackle the unintended negative impact on traffic flow and community wellbeing that has emerged since the scheme’s implementation.
Cllr Brian Smedley, leader of Bridgwater Town Council, emphasized the need for immediate action. “Following last night’s meeting where Bridgwater councillors unanimously called for a re-evaluation of traffic direction on East Quay and Salmon Parade, it is crucial to intensify our efforts and achieve a prompt resolution,” he said. Cllr Smedley stressed the importance of collaboration between Somerset Council officers, senior councillors, and key stakeholders to prioritize the best interests of Bridgwater residents.
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Deputy Conservative leader Cllr Diogo Rodrigues seconded the motion and highlighted the necessity of acknowledging mistakes. “While decisions are made with positive intentions, it’s important to admit when those decisions negatively affect the community. We must say, ‘this is not right; it is unfair to our residents. We got it wrong,’ and take corrective action,” he stated. Cllr Rodrigues pointed out that the motion echoes the voices of over 5,800 residents who signed a petition opposing the current traffic arrangements, and praised the cross-party cooperation to meet the community’s demands.
The motion urges Somerset Council to reinstate parking on Salmon Parade and reconsider the current one-way traffic system, advocating for the return to two-way traffic to improve accessibility. It also calls for enhanced pedestrian safety measures at the boxed junction east of Town Bridge and stricter enforcement of parking regulations in the Eastover area.
Additionally, the council requests the convening of a Town Development Forum with transport planners to collaboratively develop sustainable, long-term solutions for the town centre’s traffic and safety challenges.