Over recent weeks, we have seen various social media items and local press articles (1, 2) about ‘The Bridgwater Vision & Celebration Mile’ planning application. We at BACC wanted to put our own views across!
There appears to be a clear acknowledgement that the aim of the application is to promote walking and cycling, and to ensure a coherent and attractive street scene; however, the reader’s attention is drawn to the proposals for one-way streets, cycle contraflows and 20 mph limits.
In truth, as these illustrations demonstrate, it is about creating space for everyone – pedestrians, families, disability users and particularly about the support of our local shops & businesses.
Here at BACC, although we are cyclists, we are also drivers and pedestrians. Our attitude is one of inclusivity, where everyone can use the streets safely and confidently, whatever means of transport we choose. Sometimes too much emphasis is placed upon the physical changes that are proposed, and not enough on the change we’ll see in the overall feel of the area.
To many readers, it can come across as though too much concession is being given to cyclists. It’s easy to see how some people might highlight certain details, perceive these as negative, and before long the thread has descended into vitriol.
As a group of cyclists, we don’t want anyone to feel negativity towards another group. We are striving for everyone to be able to move around this beautiful town in harmony with each other, while being able to make safe and happy choices about their mode of transport – whether that’s bike, car, bus, on foot or wheelchair.
And more importantly, it’s not just about how we move around town, either. The overarching aim of the whole project is to create a pleasant, welcoming space for residents and visitors. Our town centre has so much potential, and these proposals will go a long way towards realising it. By improving the environment, people will naturally want to visit more often and for longer, spending time and money in our valuable local businesses. It really is a feed-forward cycle.
What are your views on these plans? We’d love to hear from you!
Get in touch via our contact page, via email or on Facebook.