Somerset Council has announced the schedule for roadworks aimed at restoring parking spaces along Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile. The focus is on Salmon Parade, an area near the former Bridgwater community hospital, where parking was previously removed during the implementation of the Celebration Mile project.
The project, funded with £9 million from central government, involved three key sections between Bridgwater’s railway station and historic docks. While designed to improve the town’s streetscape and promote cycling and walking, the removal of parking and the cancellation of planned upgrades to the Cross Rifles roundabout have caused increased traffic congestion, sparking frustration among residents and local businesses.
Responding to a petition signed by over 5,800 residents, Somerset Council committed in December 2025 to reviewing the scheme in full. By late March 2026, they promised to reinstate parking spaces on Salmon Parade within eight weeks—a deadline now set to be met.
READ MORE: Man Suffers Broken Jaw in Brutal Bath Street Attack
READ MORE: Rivals Season 2 Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Dame Jilly Cooper Following Her Sudden Passing
The restoration work is scheduled to take place overnight from 7pm on Monday, May 18, until 6am on Wednesday, May 20. During these hours, Salmon Parade will be closed to allow for the removal of old road markings and the installation of new lane lines. Access will remain available for residents and businesses throughout.
In parallel, the council is finalizing its review of the existing one-way system, with findings due to be shared shortly with councillors, local stakeholders, and the public.
Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning, and assets, emphasized the council’s commitment to listening to community feedback: “We have heard the concerns of businesses and local people. As a result, we are reinstating parking as part of a thorough review. We are ahead of schedule and remain dedicated to evidence-based decision-making. We will soon present our findings related to potential changes to the one-way system.”
The Celebration Mile project forms part of the wider £22.6 million Bridgwater town deal and aims to boost the visitor experience while supporting sustainable transport options. The scheme’s design was approved by both the former Sedgemoor District and Somerset County councils and endorsed by the independent Bridgwater town deal board.
A comprehensive review of the Celebration Mile will be presented to Somerset Council’s executive committee on June 3.