Newtown town centre road plan 'should go ahead' despite more objections than support
Changes to the road layout in Newtown town centre have received more objections than support during a consultation on the proposals.
Back in December it was announced that Powys County Council would hold a consultation into changes that will stop vehicles driving down some streets of Newtown town centre.
If approved, traffic will only be allowed to go in one direction along Newtown High Street and part of Shortbridge Street.
No driving will be allowed for part of Wesley Street at the current junction to Broad Street.
The consultation was held between January 28 and February 27.
During that time Powys received 21 responses raising “concerns” about the proposal and only two in favour.
Newtown East county councillor Joy Jones had originally suggested truncating Wesley Street and that the junction to Broad Street should be permanently closed on the grounds of pedestrian safety.
Councillor Jones said: "I support the proposals for making High Street one-way in a south-westerly direction as it will enhance the Green Infrastructure scheme currently being constructed as well as improving the streetscape in general for pedestrians within the town.
“My only concerns are the additional congestion this will cause on Broad Street especially on the Tuesday market.
“I hope that the county council can work with the town council in ensuring the traders adhere to the market rules and remove unnecessary vehicles from the street to minimise any delays caused.”
Powys traffic and travel manager Tony Caine said: “The most common concern over making High Street one-way in a westerly direction is the potential congestion that this may cause on Broad Street.
“However, whilst this may be a consequence, it will remove congestion and conflicts along High Street itself as well as reducing the number of vehicles exiting the town via Market Street and Shortbridge Street.”
He said he believed that the scheme should go ahead, and the objections overruled.
Mr Caine added: “The one-way will enable the green infrastructure scheme to be enhanced with an additional footway provision to aid pedestrians and the removal of traffic from the section of Wesley Street will improve the amenity of the area for visitors to the town.”
The delegated decision is set to be taken by Environment portfolio holder Councillor Heulwen Hulme on Monday, March 28.
A five-day period to allow for the possibility of the decision being scrutinised will follow before the decision comes into force.
