County council seeks your views over Bridge Street parking ban

NOTTS County Council is asking for your views on reducing vehicle movements through Bridge Street to make the area more pedestrian-friendly.

The authority brought in an experimental traffic order in May this year banning all parking on Bridge Street and Bridge Place.

But it withdrew the order in July following several complains from disabled motorists who said the ban was a ‘serious threat’ to their independence.

The authority launched a consultation on Wednesday this week to find ‘the best solution’ for the main route through the town centre.

Coun Richard Jackson, chairman of the county council’s transport and highways committee, urged everyone to have their say.

“The experimental order was introduced in a bid to reduce the levels of traffic in the pedestrian area and improve the environment, following complaints from local people and businesses,” he said.

“The order reduced dramatically the number of vehicles in the area but after listening to concerns and taking into account representations we have received, we have decided to carry out a further and wider period of consultation.”

He added: “We need to find a solution which best suits the needs of Worksop and want as many people as possible to take part in the consultation.”

“Currently a high number of cars are parking within the pedestrianised zone and this can not be allowed to continue.”

The experimental traffic order sparked controversy when it was first introduced in May - prompting outcry from those with severe mobility problems and special access permit holders.

Campaign group Bassetlaw Disability Action Team (B-DAT) was formed after several meetings and the order was removed on 5th July - allowing vehicle loading and blue badge holders to park before 10am and after 3.30pm.

Special access permit holders and maintenance and security vehicles are allowed at any time.

Consultation forms can be picked up from Worksop Library, shops and council offices.

Alternatively, head to www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/worksoptowncentre to have your say on the plans.

The closing date for all responses is Wednesday 19th September 2012.

What do YOU think is the best solution to the Bridge Street parking problem?

Let us know by calling 01909 500500 or by emailing [email protected]