Pilot Project for Liveable Neighbourhood Underway

A pilot project has commenced with the objective of enhancing safety for cyclists and pedestrians in specific urban areas through modifications to motorist access. Under the East Bristol Liveable Neighbourhood Scheme, vehicular access to certain routes will be restricted, and one-way traffic systems will be implemented in other locations. These plans encompass Barton Hill, sections of Redfield, and St George, representing an effort to “create a safer, healthier and greener neighbourhood,” according to the city council. Nevertheless, some local residents have expressed concerns that the initiative could result in increased traffic congestion in other areas. The implementation of the project began on Monday, involving alterations to motorist access on Avonvale Road, Marsh Lane, and Pilemarsh. Modifications will also be applied to access points for Barnes Street, Barton Hill Road, Beaufort Road, Cobden Street, Ducie Road, Glebe Road, Lincoln Street, The Avenue, and Wicket Lane. Buses, bicycles, motorbikes, taxis, service vehicles, and emergency services will retain their ability to enter these areas. Specific categories of drivers, including individuals with disabilities, care providers serving clients within the vicinity, and families of high-needs children, may be granted exemptions from these modifications. Further information regarding these changes is accessible on the council’s official website. Additionally, a one-way traffic flow system is slated for introduction on Cobden Street and Morton Street. The council stated that the scheme will incorporate planters and “pocket” parks into the neighbourhood, with feedback on the trial phase to be collected next year. Councillor Ed Plowden, who chairs the transport and connectivity committee, indicated that the project emerged from two years of public engagement with residents. Mr Plowden commented, “From air pollution and road safety to a lack of places for the community to meet, a liveable neighbourhood is more than preventing rat-running, it’s about creating people-friendly streets.” He also mentioned that the pilot is being constructed with temporary materials to provide a visual representation of how the streets might appear if the scheme were to be permanently implemented. The initiative has generated some controversy, as local residents have voiced concerns regarding access for disabled and elderly individuals, as well as those with young families. An individual asserted that prior road closures in the vicinity had resulted in increased traffic volumes in other locations. They stated, “The knock-on effect has always been a highly congested Church Road, and new congestion on Summerhill Road.” The project is scheduled for completion by 10 January.