Traders in Bargoed, Caerphilly, have expressed their frustration over the installation of 60 bollards by the local council, which they believe will have a detrimental impact on businesses in the area. Last week, workers from Caerphilly County Borough Council placed the bollards on Hanbury Road and High Street in the town centre, aiming to prevent motorists from parking on the pavement. While the council insists that the bollards were erected to address parking issues and improve pedestrian safety, traders argue that the move will only worsen the situation for struggling businesses.
With the implementation of the bollards, customers can no longer park directly outside shops on Hanbury Road and High Street, leading to concerns about accessibility to businesses. Additionally, business owners are now required to use the town centre’s four designated loading bays for deliveries, which traders claim are continually occupied by cars. Taz Dhariwal, from One Stop in Bargoed, expressed his disappointment, stating, “It’s another nail in the coffin for businesses in Bargoed,” emphasising that the new restrictions will deter both customers and delivery drivers.
The traders argue that the lack of consultation or warning about the installation of the bollards has left them feeling unheard by the council. Belinda Daley, a former business owner in the town, highlighted the potential chaos that could arise from delivery vehicles blocking the town centre due to restricted access. David Greening of B Thomas Pet and Garden Supplies echoed these concerns, noting the impact on elderly and disabled customers who relied on parking outside shops for quick access to heavy items.
In response to the criticism, a council spokesman defended the bollards, stating that they are part of an ongoing effort to address parking challenges and enhance pedestrian safety in Bargoed. The council stressed that the bollards aim to shift the responsibility back to drivers to ensure the safety of pedestrians and discourage the use of footways for parking. However, traders remain dissatisfied, pointing out the practical challenges posed by the new restrictions and the potential loss of customers due to limited accessibility to businesses.
The traders’ concerns extend beyond the immediate impact on businesses, as they fear that the changes could drive customers away from Bargoed town centre altogether. The alterations in traffic flow and parking arrangements have raised questions about the town’s overall appeal and convenience for visitors. Despite the council’s intentions to address longstanding issues related to parking and pedestrian safety, the implementation of the bollards has sparked controversy and highlighted the need for dialogue between local authorities and businesses to find mutually beneficial solutions.
With tensions running high in Bargoed, traders continue to voice their frustrations over the perceived lack of consultation and the potentially adverse effects of the bollards on businesses. As the community navigates these challenges, finding a balance between addressing parking concerns and supporting local businesses remains a pressing issue. The ongoing dialogue between traders and the council will be crucial in shaping the future of Bargoed town centre and fostering a vibrant and sustainable business environment for all stakeholders.