Bristol city council are set to close a section of Clifton’s high street in a bid to encourage walking and cycling, delivering cleaner air for the region.
A small section of Princess Victoria Street will close to motorists between 11am and 5pm daily in response to a recent survey which showed support for reducing traffic in Clifton.
Planters, outdoor seating, cycle parking, and ramps for wheelchairs and pushchairs will be installed as part of the scheme, that is designed to reduce rat-running through traffic on the road. It aims to allow businesses to trade outdoors, improve walking and cycling journeys and provide people with more places to stop and rest.
Bristol’s mayor, Marvin Rees, said: “We are committed to delivering more liveable neighbourhoods with less traffic congestion and pollution. It is clear the local community want to see less traffic on their roads, to breathe cleaner air, and to feel safer when travelling on foot or by bike.
“We must take bold action if we are to deliver on these priorities. This trial will form part of work to help us meet our ambitious air quality and climate commitments, alongside the Clean Air Zone and plans for a mass transit public transport system on over and underground lines.”
The affected area will be closed from today [16 August] until Friday to allow for installation of the pedestrianisation scheme. Officers will be on the ground to arrange access for business deliveries and loading. The trial closure will be implemented from Saturday 21 for a period of 18 months.
Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport, added: “The views of the community will continue to be of utmost importance as we monitor the trial closure. Consultation will be open for the first six months of the experiment so please do get involved and have your say if you have any views or suggestions.
“I look forward to seeing the scheme in place and to working with the Clifton councillors and the local community to ensure it is working for the benefit of everyone.”
