Bridgwater Town Council has voiced disappointment at Somerset Council’s latest review of the Celebration Mile regeneration scheme, saying the current proposals do not go far enough to address traffic, accessibility and safety concerns in the town centre.
The review looked at alternative traffic arrangements for East Quay and Salmon Parade, but concluded that no option would significantly cut congestion. The review recommended keeping the current layout while carrying out more engagement with residents and businesses.
Town councillors say they accept the scheme was agreed as part of the Bridgwater Town Deal, but argue that changing conditions mean plans must be reassessed in light of real‑world experience.
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Councillors have welcomed the reinstatement of parking on Salmon Parade as a positive step, but say more is needed. Town Bridge and Eastover are key areas of concern, the council says, and pedestrian safety and accessibility remain top issues.
They are also pressing for consistent enforcement of traffic regulations in Eastover and improvements to bus movements, including maintaining key turning routes to support access to the transport hub.
The town council has also raised concerns about the tone of commentary accompanying the review, especially suggestions that the issue is a simple choice between a car‑dominated centre and a more attractive pedestrian environment.
The council says this does not match the experience of many Bridgwater residents, who are asking for a balanced approach that supports accessibility, local businesses and a better 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."
He added: “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.
"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 urging residents and businesses to get involved when details are announced.
