Bridgend Council Seeks Feedback on Reversing Town Centre Pedestrianisation
In a bid to enhance access to Bridgend town centre, the Bridgend County Borough Council has initiated a public consultation regarding potential plans to roll back pedestrian-only areas and reintroduce cars to certain streets. This decision follows the unanimous support of a motion in January that proposed the partial de-pedestrianisation of the town centre.
Initially pedestrianised back in 2004, some streets in Bridgend town centre are now being considered for partial reversal. Business owners and residents, especially in areas like Queen Street, Dunraven Place, and Market Street, are eager for this change, as they believe it is crucial for the regeneration and prosperity of their businesses in the years to come.
Furthermore, the latest proposals under consultation suggest extending loading and unloading hours in pedestrianised zones to better facilitate businesses and customers. Additionally, there are talks of increasing disabled parking spots by converting areas on Derwen Road and allowing cycling access in certain pedestrianised regions, alongside the provision of improved cycle parking facilities.
While the council acknowledges that some stakeholders may advocate for opening all streets to traffic, the current proposal does not include such a measure. The council is, however, inviting all views and feedback through the consultation process, indicating that all responses will be vital in determining the need for further investigation and potential subsequent phases.
The consultation document recognises the changing dynamics of how people use Bridgend town centre, attributing these alterations to various factors such as the shifting retail landscape with major stores relocating to out-of-town areas, the surge in online shopping, the increase in remote services like online banking, the rise in remote working, and challenges related to accessibility.
To combat these challenges and adapt to the evolving needs of the community, the Bridgend County Borough Council is urging residents to provide feedback on a range of proposals aimed at improving access to the town centre. The consultation, which takes between three to ten minutes to complete, is available on the council’s website for interested parties to voice their opinions.
This move marks the latest development in a long-standing issue that has been under debate by residents since 2016. The public has until May 2, 2025, to participate in the consultation and share their views on the potential changes to pedestrianisation in Bridgend town centre.
Considering the significance of this decision on the town’s infrastructure and economy, the council is keen on engaging with the community and gathering diverse perspectives before reaching a final verdict on the future of pedestrianised areas in Bridgend. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to take part in shaping the town’s urban landscape by contributing their thoughts and suggestions through the ongoing consultation process.