Works on a £4.6 million project to upgrade Thornbury High Street are due to start this month and take a year to complete. The controversial plans have split opinions within the town, with some fearing a drop in footfall due to the ban on cars being driven through the High Street.
South Gloucestershire Council hopes the project will boost the local economy, improve air quality and make it easier for people to walk and cycle to the High Street. The ban on through-traffic was brought in during the summer 2020, to help with social distancing.
The design of the road includes parking bays for waiting and loading, and disabled blue badge parking. The road will only be one-way, and for access only. The plans also include new cycle stands, benches, a bus shelter and planters.
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A council spokesperson said: “People come to the High Street for a whole range of reasons for shopping, to eat and drink, for health and beauty, to visit the library, or for services such as estate agents and accountants. The High Street is also a place where people come together, socialise, and join in community activities.
“We are creating a High Street that prioritises people. Our programme of investment into Thornbury will support a sustainable town centre that is fit for the future, improve air quality, make it easier for people to walk and cycle to and from the high street, and improve parking for residents, businesses and visitors.
“Throughout this process we will work closely with stakeholders including residents, businesses, Thornbury Town Council, and establish new groups such as our equalities representatives, to develop a high street that is fit for the future.”
Work on the nearby Rock Street car park began in November and is due to end this spring. While this work is taking place, the car park will only operate at half capacity. Changes will include wider spaces, relocated disabled bays closer to the crossing into the St Mary Centre, planting new trees and shrubs, and installing more electric vehicle charging points.
A temporary site compound will be set up on Monday, March 6, in Castle Court car park. The compound at the back of the car park will take up six spaces and part of the adjacent field, while work on the High Street takes place.
