Bridgwater Town Council has united in a strong call for Somerset Council to urgently address the ongoing issues stemming from the controversial Celebration Mile road scheme. At a full council meeting on December 18, councillors passed a motion demanding swift action to resolve traffic changes that many residents say have negatively impacted the community.
Council leader Cllr Brian Smedley emphasized the need for prompt resolution following a recent Somerset Council meeting where local representatives expressed concerns about traffic direction along East Quay and Salmon Parade. He stressed the importance of collaboration between Somerset Council officers, senior councillors, and key stakeholders to review the project and prioritize the wellbeing of Bridgwater residents.
Deputy Conservative leader Cllr Diogo Rodrigues, who seconded the motion, acknowledged the good intentions behind the original decisions but highlighted the unintended negative consequences for local people. “When a decision clearly harms our residents, the right course is to admit the mistake and take steps to correct it,” he said. Cllr Rodrigues also referenced a petition signed by over 5,800 residents, underscoring the widespread community demand for change.
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The council’s motion calls for the immediate restoration of parking on Salmon Parade and a reconsideration of traffic flow along Salmon Parade and East Quay, advocating for the return of two-way traffic. Additional requests include measures to improve pedestrian safety at the boxed junction east of Town Bridge and stricter enforcement of parking restrictions in Eastover.
To ensure lasting improvements, Bridgwater Town Council is also pushing for a Town Development Forum meeting involving transport planners and other stakeholders to collaboratively develop sustainable solutions for the town centre’s traffic challenges.