Somerset Council has announced that parking spaces on Salmon Parade, part of Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile, will be reinstated within the next eight weeks. This move comes after significant public backlash following the removal of parking in the area near the former Bridgwater community hospital.
The Celebration Mile project, funded with £9 million from central government, included changes to three sections between the town’s railway station and historic docks. However, the removal of parking, combined with the cancellation of Cross Rifles roundabout upgrades, led to increased congestion that frustrated local residents and businesses alike.
A petition demanding the restoration of parking gathered over 5,800 signatures, prompting the council in December 2025 to pledge a full review of the scheme. They committed to implementing any major changes by summer 2026.
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Carole Edmunds, Bridgwater Town Councillor, raised the issue during Somerset Council’s executive committee meeting on April 1. She highlighted the strong community response and urged the council to act urgently.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, confirmed that consultants are finalizing designs for the parking spaces, with the legal process soon to follow. He assured that the parking would be reinstated by early June.
Edmunds, known for advocating active travel, pointed out that the Bridgwater Town Council unanimously requested the on-street parking restoration as soon as possible. Councillor Mike Rigby previously expressed confusion over the initial removal and indicated support for early reinstatement.
Wilkins stressed the council is prioritizing this work, with detailed drawings ready and a 28-day turnaround on work orders expected. The restoration of parking on Salmon Parade aims to ease congestion and address community concerns promptly.