Cycling advocates in Bridgwater are urging Somerset Council to resist making any immediate alterations to the newly installed Celebration Mile road layout, suggesting that the scheme be given five to ten years to demonstrate its full potential.
The Celebration Mile, a project designed to connect Bridgwater railway station to Northgate Docks, is nearing completion on three key sections. Funded by a £9 million government-backed Bridgwater Town Deal, the initiative aims to improve infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
However, the project has faced criticism—road closures and construction delays have impacted local businesses, prompting backlash from residents and officials. Local MP Sir Ashley Fox and Conservative group leader Diogo Rodrigues spearheaded a petition opposing the one-way traffic system introduced on East Quay and Salmon Parade, which are integral parts of the scheme. This petition sparked controversy, partly because the design was approved by the former Conservative-led Sedgemoor District Council before its dissolution earlier this year.
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Despite the opposition, the Bridgwater Area Cycling Campaign (BACC) has strongly advised the council against repealing the current setup. BACC emphasizes that prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists will enhance the town center’s safety and vitality over time.
While most work is complete on the Eastover section, finishing touches are underway at Angel Crescent and Clare Street. All sections are scheduled to be fully operational by early November.
Colin Gummer, communications manager for BACC, responded to Somerset Council Liberal Democrat leader Bill Revans' commitment to review and potentially change the scheme, with a clear message on social media:
“Don’t revert to two-way traffic. This new layout rightly favors pedestrians and cyclists. The Celebration Mile has been over a decade in the making, with public consultations held more than three years ago—why wasn’t a petition launched then?”
BACC has played an active role in consulting on several walking and cycling initiatives across Bridgwater in recent years, including a route from Dunball roundabout to Northgate Docks, forming part of the local cycling and walking infrastructure plan (LCWIP). This network will eventually connect to the planned gigafactory in Puriton via the M5 footbridge.
Mr. Gummer warned that reversing progress could undermine pedestrian and cyclist safety, discouraging visitors from shopping locally.
He added, “The safe and limited traffic flow on Fore Street and High Street, which many now take for granted, was once met with resistance. Would politicians want to reopen these streets to two-way car traffic? We urge patience—give the scheme time to settle, and it could become a welcomed change in five or ten years.”
Further improvements, including a new bridge over the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal at Northgate Docks, are planned as part of a £5.2 million regeneration effort to enhance walking and cycling connections.
Local resident Dave Chapple, who has lived in Eastover since 1987, defended the current layout, disputing claims that motorists face significant delays. He noted the benefits of the one-way system in reducing traffic congestion, improving safety, and lowering pollution in the historic neighborhood.
“It only adds a couple of minutes to get to Asda via Cross Rifles roundabout,” Chapple said. “Since the one-way system’s introduction, we’ve seen improved driver behavior, less pavement parking, and a reduction in through-traffic cutting through side streets. Eastover residents now enjoy safer streets and a friendlier atmosphere, with new benches encouraging community interaction.”