News on Somerset Covid Active Travel

The impact of the new lockdown on town centres in Somerset and what that means for schemes designed to aid social distancing and encourage walking and cycling is being assessed.

Several temporary measures currently remain in place such as one-way systems in Bridgwater and Glastonbury, and pedestrianisation in Taunton, Yeovil, and Wells.

Somerset’s Active Travel Group, which oversees the deployment of the schemes understands circumstances have changed with non-essential retail outlets now closed and the potential change in footfall and travel behaviour.

Before any further decisions can be made on the future of these schemes, the group, which consists of representatives from the five Somerset authorities, the county’s Public Health Team, Avon and Somerset Police and Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP), is working to understand the implications of the lockdown on these town centres and is listening to the views of the public and wider community.

All schemes are regularly reviewed by the group as a matter of course and public feedback has been an integral part of the process.

Any future schemes will be subject to wider public consultation by Somerset Active Travel.

The main schemes currently are:

Taunton: East Street closure/pedestrianisation

Bridgwater: Eastover/East Quay/Salmon Parade – one-way system in place

Glastonbury High Street: one-way system in place

Wells: Market Place – closed to traffic

Yeovil: Pedestrianisation of Middle and High Street

You can continue to feedback and tell us what’s working well and any improvements you think we can make by using this Somerset Covid Active Travel Map.

For general information and updates on travel in Somerset visit www.travelsomerset.co.uk

A single phone number is available for anyone in Somerset who needs Coronavirus-related support from their councils. The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline number, 0300 790 6275, is open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm, offering a range of support – from help accessing food or medicines, to emotional and financial support, and employment, skills and business advice.