Permanent ban on traffic moves a step closer

More than half a million pounds has been set aside to make changes to part of Princess Victoria Street permanent. 

   The pedestrianisation of  the street was done under an experimental traffic order so that the changes could be monitored and assessed before deciding whether to keep it.  

   Ward councillor Paula O’Rourke said: “That decision was made last February and councillors are delighted to announce that the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has committed up to £600,000 to improve the infrastructure as they remove the temporary scheme.”  

    Among other things the money will be used to repave the road, put in street trees, remove the unsightly ramps and signs in concrete blocks.

    Cllr O’Rourke says that traders are being consulted on options now and a design will then be worked up and will be shared with nearby residents within the next few months.

    “A full business case will have to be submitted to WECA in May 2024 before the funds are finally cleared.  This means that the work won’t actually be done until January 2025 as councillors do not want traders to have disruptive work done during busy trading periods said Cllr O’Rourke.