Attempts at ‘improving’ the Newbury town centre pedestrianisation scheme get put to West Berkshire Council next week (Thursday).
Next Thursday, West Berkshire Council will discuss changes to the Newbury town centre pedestrianisation scheme.
Independent councillor Adrian Abbs has proposed a one-way system allowing traffic to flow from south to north along Bartholomew Street through Northbrook Street, with return access via Park Way.
Mr Abbs believes this setup will enhance connectivity and reduce congestion on nearby roads. He also suggested introducing free short-stay parking bays for 15 to 30 minutes on parts of Bartholomew Street and Northbrook Street.
Many residents have expressed frustration, with nearly 60% of survey respondents opposing the pedestrianisation extension to 10am-11pm.
Conservative group leader Ross Mackinnon has introduced a motion requesting that the council release a statement within 14 days if a decision goes against the majority opinion from public consultations. This statement would clarify the rationale for the decision.
Despite the pushback, the council believes there is sufficient support for the trial, citing evidence that pedestrianisation boosts local vitality. Council leader Jeff Brooks stated, “If it was palpably not working then we will stop the trial.”
The council will debate these motions next Thursday.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
