News / pedestrianisation
Bristol has a new fully pedestrianised stretch of road
Little by little, Bristol is becoming a better city for pedestrians.
The latest improvements have come on a small side street off Gloucester Road which is now completely pedestrianised, and has reopened to walkers and cyclists following work which started in April.
The bottom section of Overton Road between Gloucester Road and North Road is closed to cars and features new benches, planters and cycle stands.
Bristol City Council hope that the pedestrianised stretch of road will “provide safer journeys for those walking, wheeling and cycling through the area… as well as creating more outdoor space for social interaction and a welcome boost in footfall for local traders”.
But how will businesses survive without drivers being able to park their cars right outside? – photo: Martin Booth
Ed Plowden, chair of the transport & connectivity committee, called the pedestrianisation of Overton Road “a fantastic moment for the area”.
Plowden said: “These new measures have freed up ample space for businesses, pedestrians and cyclists – and in turn have completely transformed this street.
“It’s now easier than ever for people to come and enjoy Gloucester Road and the surrounding area on foot or on two wheels.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the area become a new hotspot for residents to park their bike, find a seat and enjoy some of the great food and drink Gloucester Road has to offer in this brilliant new outdoor setting.”
It’s now unthinkable that cars will be returning to this stretch of Overton Road – photo: Google Street View (from October 2023)
Perfecto Coffee owner Aly Hussein said: “From a business perspective, and at a time when many are struggling, we are already seeing the positive benefits of the scheme which will also provide community benefits and an enhanced physical environment.
“We have recently applied to the council to place a small number of tables and chairs on part of the shared space for our customers which will help ensure the viability and future of the premises.”
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Read more: Sweetmart promise to leave St Mark’s Road if street is pedestrianised
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The pedestrianisation project on Overton Road cost £500,000 and was funded by the government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement secured by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.
West of England mayor Helen Godwin said: “Working with local councils, improvements like these should be good news for our economy and also make a real difference that people can see and feel in the heart of their communities.
“Getting the basics right now by improving our walking and cycling infrastructure, and fixing our roads and bridges, will lay the foundations for a better transport system overall for our part of the world.”
While the newly pedestrianised zone is ready for use, there are still some finishing touches to be added, with trees and smaller shrubs due to be planted in the autumn and winter – photo: Martin Booth
Main photo: Martin Booth
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