URL: https://democracy.somerset.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2115

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Motion A – Salmon Parade and East Quay Bridgwater   Councillor Leigh Redman proposed the recommendations which were seconded by Councillor Hilary Bruce.   Council had heard the frustration of many Bridgwater residents concerning the Salmon Parade and East Quay elements of the Celebration Mile Project.   Having been duly proposed and seconded, the Council Resolved to: Agree to review this element of the project, recognising the core objective being pedestrian safety throughout the town centre and supporting the viability of town centre businesses by improving residents experience of town centre shopping. After listening to local members and the Bridgwater Town Deal Board, Council agreed to a review that considered: ·       Reinstating parking on Salmon Parade at the earliest opportunity. ·       Reviewing the direction of one-way traffic on both Salmon Parade and East Quay. ·       Whilst prioritising pedestrian safety at the Eastover Town Bridge junction.   Outcomes of this review would be based on evidence and engagement with stakeholders, and to return to Council within 4 months with a report and a timetable for implementation.   Motion B – Supporting Somerset’s Town Centres and High Streets   Councillor Lucy Trmnell proposed the recommendations which were seconded by Councillor Connor Payne.   Having been duly proposed and seconded, the Council Resolved to Recognise: 1)    That Somerset’s town centres were vital community hubs where residents accessed shops, services, culture, hospitality and public facilities. 2)    That vibrant town centres were essential for the economic health, social wellbeing and identity of our communities. 3)    That hospitality and retail businesses played a central role in shaping the life of our high streets, attracting footfall, creating jobs and supporting the wider local economy. 4)    That government policy, such as the Employers National Insurance rise and increases in business rates payable, had negatively impacted local businesses. Believe: 5)    That its decisions should support the long-term viability of our town centres, help attract footfall and create the conditions for independent businesses and local employers to succeed. 6)    That hospitality and retail sector businesses were vital for thriving town centres and that they benefited from stable costs, predictable trading conditions and good access for customers. 7)    That government should do more to support our town centres and high streets, such as scrapping business rates for hospitality and retail sector businesses, without impacting the income to the authority. Council therefore resolved to: 8)    Consider the long-term viability of our town centres when making decisions that impact them, including any changes to parking provision.  9)    Write to the Chancellor requesting a review of business rates for hospitality and retail sector business. 10)Demonstrate through the papers and strategies that we produced that we saw our high streets, and therefore retail, as being essential to the local economy and the people who lived here. 11)Work with the police to tackle antisocial behaviour in our town centres by ensuring that PSPOs and other council implemented actions were introduced, where necessary, in a timely manner and kept up to date.

Date of Decision: December 17, 2025