Voters in Thornbury will have their say on May 26 about whether controversial changes to the town’s high street should be scrapped.
South Gloucestershire Council is planning on making the changes permanent, with work due to begin this summer and finishing by October next year.
But local residents are campaigning for a vote to scrap the changes, which were initially brought in summer 2020, and revert to the pre-pandemic layout with through traffic.
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Asked if a majority vote in favour would mean scrapping its plans, the council said it "welcomed" public feedback.
A council spokesperson said: “We welcome public feedback on our plans for Thornbury High Street and will continue to work closely with people who live and work in the town to develop a sustainable high street that is fit for the future and welcoming for all.”
According to Thornbury Residents Association, it’s “vital” that voters show up on May 26 to have their say about the future of the high street.
A spokesman for the residents association said: “This is the main chance, and perhaps the only one, for the electors of Thornbury to show in a straight yes-no vote whether or not they are in agreement with the restoration of our historic high street to its pre-Covid layout.
“This should bring the bonuses of providing passing trade access to the high street shops, boosting the trading economy in the street, reducing traffic congestion on Rock Street, and improving air quality near the retirement apartments and sheltered housing on Rock Street and Midland Way. It is vital that everyone takes this chance to voice their opinion.
“The result of the vote is not binding on South Gloucestershire Council. But it can be very powerful in changing the thinking in the council about whether their proposals for our high street are in accordance with the democratic wishes of the electorate.”
Changes to the high street involve banning through traffic and only allowing a one-way system for delivery drivers and residents. But complaints about the changes include reducing footfall to local shops and increasing congestion elsewhere in the town as traffic is diverted.
Initially brought in to help social distancing, the changes to the high street could also make it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to access local shops, cutting carbon emissions and air pollution. But the council has faced stern criticism for plans to make the scheme permanent.
The parish poll was called for at Thornbury’s annual town meeting last month. The question on the poll will ask voters: “Do you want Thornbury High Street returned to its pre-pandemic status of through traffic for all vehicles and timed parking bays on both sides of the carriageway?”
Polling cards aren’t issued for parish polls, and proxy or postal votes aren’t allowed, due to current laws on parish polls. A separate poll will also be held on the same day, regarding holding a public consultation of the future of the Armstrong Hall.
The debate on the changes to the high street has sometimes been polarising, with some local traders in favour of the scheme saying they’re scared to speak out for fear of abuse. Council leader Toby Savage also earlier this month said that lots of people support the plans but won’t say so publicly.
The council said it has consulted widely with residents and businesses, considered all comments, and made changes to address any concerns. Local businesses have been supported with post-pandemic grants, and open-air markets and events have been held to encourage footfall to Thornbury.
A council spokesperson previously said: “Our aspiration is to map out a future for the centre of the town that is shared by the community and will continue to be enjoyed for many generations to come. We want local people to help shape these plans and have worked hard to ensure they are fully engaged throughout the process.
“The changes are intended to benefit anyone shopping, walking, cycling or enjoying outdoor seating with less traffic, making it a more pleasant place to be.”
The council sent a full business case for the changes to the West of England Combined Authority in March, and will be subject to an assurance process before a final decision is made.
Thornbury High Street timeline:
- October 2023 — Work to make the changes permanent is due to be completed
- July 2022 — Work to make the changes permanent is due to be begin
- 26 May 2022 — Thornbury to vote in parish poll on whether to scrap the changes
- June 2021 — South Gloucestershire Council votes to make changes permanent
- June 2020 — Temporary changes to the high street introduced during the first lockdown
