Council considers accelerating traffic changes for Celebration Mile in Bridgwater
Two-way traffic restoration could occur ahead of the new year
Somerset Council is evaluating the feasibility of restoring two-way traffic on parts of Bridgwater's Celebration Mile before the Christmas season, rather than postponing the changes until next year.
Council Leader Bill Revans revealed that East Quay and Salmon Parade would see two-way traffic restored, with an estimated project cost of £560,000. This move follows a lengthy public consultation and has received support from Bridgwater Town Council, as well as opposition groups.
Councillor Diogo Rodrigues, leader of the Conservative opposition, recently shared on social media that highway officers are exploring an initial traffic flow restoration in December, pushing back planned resurfacing to a later date. He described the development as "encouraging news," citing the community’s strong demand for the change, reflected in a petition signed by nearly 6,000 residents.
While the council has not yet confirmed a precise start date, it is considering implementation factors and aims to make informed decisions to ensure safety and efficiency. Rodrigues mentioned, "To reopen the road earlier, the existing road markings would be removed and new ones put down without resurfacing the road."
The completed changes are dependent on a smooth legal process and no substantial objections. More comprehensive improvements are anticipated following the initiation of works for the health and social care academy on Salmon Parade, scheduled to start in March 2028.
A council spokesperson stated, "We are continuing to work through the options and timescales for delivering the agreed changes to East Quay and Salmon Parade...The timing will depend on a number of factors and we will provide a further update once the programme has been agreed."