Any alterations to Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile won’t be enacted until summer 2026 following a full council vote in Somerset. This decision comes after extensive public discontent over recent traffic system changes funded by a £9 million Bridgwater town deal.
The Celebration Mile project, envisioned to stretch from Bridgwater railway station to Northgate Docks, incorporated new one-way systems on Eastover, East Quay, and Salmon Parade. However, these adjustments, combined with the cancellation of upgrades to the busy Cross Rifles roundabout, have caused increased congestion and frustration among local residents and businesses.
A petition led by Conservative opposition leader Councillor Diogo Rodrigues gathered over 5,800 signatures, demanding the reinstatement of two-way traffic on East Quay and Salmon Parade and the return of parking spaces on Salmon Parade. The full council engaged in a heated debate on December 17, ultimately agreeing to conduct a comprehensive review over four months before considering any changes.
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Originating from the 2009 Bridgwater Vision and updated in 2015 by the former Sedgemoor District Council, the Celebration Mile became a key part of the 2019 Bridgwater town deal funded by the government’s towns fund. The layout was formally approved in late 2022, and its implementation subsequently passed to Somerset Council in April 2023.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, in charge of transport and waste services, emphasized that the scheme aligns with longstanding local planning goals focused on enhancing pedestrian access and public spaces rather than easing traffic flow. He noted the delivery of the project concluded in October 2024 alongside a £10.7 million upgrade of the Dunball roundabout, which connects Bridgwater to junction 23 of the M5 motorway.
Criticism has primarily centered on the Cross Rifles roundabout’s upgrade cancellation, which many argue has compounded traffic issues. Local politicians, including MP Sir Ashley Fox and numerous Conservative councillors, warn that the combined impact has hampered access to town center businesses and complicated cross-town travel.
Council leader Bill Revans assured a review would follow public concern, especially from the Eastover area. The council continues to monitor footfall and traffic patterns to guide future decisions.
At the council meeting, over 100 residents and business owners voiced their dissatisfaction. Business owner Mandy Maskell described the roadworks as devastating for Eastover shops, citing difficulty for elderly and disabled shoppers and disruptions to daily life. Others, including representatives from Bridgwater Without Parish Council and Puriton Parish Council, echoed concerns about worsening congestion and declining local commerce.
Despite the backlash, some officials expressed cautious optimism. Councillor Mike Rigby highlighted that Bridgwater’s foot traffic remains strong compared to other towns, but he acknowledged the need for possible future adjustments based on community feedback.
The council voted to delay any changes, with the review process expected to last until mid-2026. Legal procedures, including traffic regulation orders and public consultation requirements, will dictate the timeline for implementing any changes.
Opposition councillors urged swifter action to relieve struggling businesses, while some viewed the delayed process as necessary for ensuring well-considered outcomes, citing examples from other nearby towns.
With only two full council meetings scheduled before summer 2026, and key sessions focusing on budget planning, practical adjustments to the Celebration Mile’s layout are unlikely until after a thorough evaluation.