Welshpool's Broad Street 'could be pedestrianised'

Members speaking at a meeting of the town council's strategy, policy and development committee said they had repeatedly been approached by members of the public proposing that Broad Street be made pedestrian-only.

The street is a trunk road maintained by the Welsh Government, but closes for major events such as the annual lights switch-on.

And members told the meeting that they had been asked by local residents about whether it could be permanently closed to traffic.

Cllr Phil Pritchard told the meeting: “I’d like to make you aware of one query I had, which came right out of the blue but I couldn’t help thinking about afterwards.

"I was asked why we don’t make the whole of Broad Street pedestrianised and have the traffic go around the town.”

OTHER NEWS: 

• Pupils evacuated from school bus after it catches fire in Powys
• Shock after well-known pub and hotel closes suddenly
• Police seize nearly half a million pounds worth of cannabis in Welshpool raids

The idea coincided with a discussion on whether Welshpool could use more ‘green spaces’ and traffic free areas, with councillors citing other towns that have created pedestrianised high streets. 

Cllr Phil Owen reminded the council: “The trouble is that Broad Street is still designated as a trunk road, but I think pedestrianising it could be done and might actually be a good thing.”

Cllr Morag Bailey added: “I’ve had that discussion with people on more than one occasion. But the conversation led to people saying they’ve only just got used to the one way system.

“The amount of traffic going up there is a concern and when you’re coming into town that is the way you’re sent now.

“Sounds lovely, but would have to take into account residents who use that road. One member of the public has also said to me that they felt we were having too many closures, using it too many times and impeding their access too regularly.

"I don’t necessarily agree but it’s something to take into account and see each side.”

Cllr David France added: “I’m glad this was brought this up and agree with what Cllr Owen is saying. I think it would be good to have a space made just for pedestrians without traffic disturbing their day.

“If we wanted to pursue the idea we could petition Welsh Government over it being a trunk road. But I think we’d need to consult the public over whether it’d be something they’d want to see. I think it could be something worth exploring.”