Bridgwater Town Council has expressed disappointment following the latest update from Somerset Council regarding the Celebration Mile regeneration scheme.
The review, which considered a range of alternative traffic arrangements for East Quay and Salmon Parade, concluded that no option would significantly reduce congestion and recommended maintaining the current layout while further engagement with residents and businesses takes place.
The Town Council recognises that the Celebration Mile scheme was agreed as part of the Bridgwater Town Deal; however, it is vital to acknowledge that towns are not static. As conditions and community needs change, there must be a willingness to review schemes in light of real-world experience and adapt where necessary.
Councillors have welcomed the reinstatement of parking on Salmon Parade as a positive step. However, they have made clear that further improvements are needed, particularly to address long-standing concerns around the Town Bridge and Eastover connection, where pedestrian safety and accessibility remain key issues.
The Council continues to highlight a number of practical priorities raised by residents and businesses. These include the need for consistent and effective enforcement of traffic regulations in Eastover, as well as improvements to bus movements in the town centre, including maintaining essential turning routes to support access to the transport hub.
The Town Council also raised concerns about the tone of commentary accompanying the report, particularly suggestions that the issue represents a simple choice between a car-dominated town centre and a more attractive environment. Members believe this does not reflect the lived experience of many in Bridgwater, who are calling for a balanced approach that supports accessibility, local businesses and an improved public realm.
Cllr Brian Smedley, Leader of Bridgwater Town Council said,
“Bridgwater Town Council supported a review of the Celebration Mile following its completion, recognising that the original project was developed in 2009 and that circumstances have since changed.
“In January, we convened a meeting of the Town Development Forum, giving our partners the opportunity to share their views. These were carefully considered by Somerset Council and reflected in the revised proposals presented to us on 2 June. At that meeting, we agreed that some level of traffic flow should return to the riverside route. While a two-way system (Option B) is one possibility, we recognise this may not align with the findings of the travel survey and therefore consider a south-to-north flow (Option A) to be a more deliverable solution.
“We also emphasised the importance of robust enforcement of traffic regulations in Eastover to support the new arrangements and welcomed the proposed restoration of parking on Salmon Parade. Maintaining the right turn from Eastover to East Quay is essential to ensure continued bus access to the transport hub.
“We would also like to see renewed focus on the key connection point between the bridge and Eastover, with a solution that promotes safe and effective interaction between pedestrians and vehicles.
“Finally, we strongly support the reinstatement of the full street furniture scheme, including seating and tree planting as originally envisaged, and we look forward to working in partnership with Somerset Council to help deliver this.”
He added,
“Bridgwater deserves a town centre that is both welcoming and accessible, supporting local businesses while creating an environment where people want to spend time.”
The Town Council has welcomed Somerset Council’s commitment to further consultation and is encouraging residents and businesses to take part when details are announced.
Bridgwater Town Council will continue to represent the views of the community and work constructively with partners to ensure future decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the town.