Could Cotham Hill become permanently pedestrianised?

The temporary pedestrianisation of parts of Cotham Hill could become permanent.

But it will be up to the local community to tell Bristol City Council that they want to see it happen.

Despite many business owners benefitting from the pedestrianised areas that have been in place since April, other traders and residents have been less supportive of the scheme.

A new consultation asks respondents to choose from three future options:

• Cotham Hill pedestrianisation scheme plus improvements on surrounding roads

This option continues with the closure on Cotham Hill for vehicles between Whiteladies Gate and Hampton Park, and Hampton Park and Abbotsford Road. Footways will be widened throughout the traffic-free area where possible and trading space retained outside businesses with trading outside to cease at 10pm. Removing traffic from Cotham Hill in these locations will enable the junctions at side roads to be upgraded.

• Cotham Hill pedestrianisation scheme

This option largely retains the arrangements of the temporary scheme but with some alterations. The pedestrianised area will be extended to the junction of Abbotsford Road. Footways will be widened throughout the traffic-free area where possible and trading space retained outside businesses with trading outside to cease at 10pm. Removing traffic from Cotham Hill in these locations will enable the junctions at side roads to be upgraded.

• One-way scheme

This option removes the current scheme and changes Cotham Hill into a one-way street for motorised vehicles, allowing traffic to travel from Whiteladies Road to Cotham Road. By taking out a traffic lane and by removing the existing parking between Whiteladies Gate and Abbotsford Road, footpaths will be able to be widened and space created for cycling in both directions. In this design there is no pedestrianised area and space on the high street to carry out trading for businesses is reduced.

Option A: Cotham Hill pedestrianisation scheme plus improvements on surrounding roads – map: Bristol City Council

Option B: Cotham Hill pedestrianisation scheme – map: Bristol City Council

Option C: One-way scheme – map: Bristol City Council

Bristol mayor Marvin Rees said that the council’s aim is to create “more liveable neighbourhoods” across the city.

Rees said: “Since the road closure in April, residents have had more access to walking and cycling, and local hospitality businesses have benefited from outdoor trading.

“We now want to engage with the community on plans for making this scheme permanent.

“Our aim is to deliver more liveable neighbourhoods right across the city that are free from traffic congestion and pollution.”

Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer has also been a leading voice in the push to pedestrianise Cotham Hill, which is within her Clifton Down ward.

She tweeted: “Stopping rat running, opening up streets for safer walking and wheeling, providing space for traders and the community, and reducing local air pollution? Yes please!”

Cotham Hill prior to pedestrianisation – photo: Martin Booth

Dan Williams, owner of Coffee & Beer on Cotham Hill and one of the leading campaigners to pedestrianise the street, said that the road closure has allowed his business to open and trade since April using outdoor space.

“The scheme is helping to cement Cotham Hill as an independent, destination high street where people now have access to more space for a stroll, or to browse and support the variety of great businesses in a cleaner environment.”

Coffee & Beer owner Dan Williams – photo: Martin Booth

Bravas owners Kieran and Imogen Waite added: “The road closure helps address local concerns about safety and speeding traffic.

“As this has been a successful trial, we encourage local traders and residents to take part in the survey to help turn this scheme into a more permanent solution for local businesses, residents and the road.”

To take part in the consultation, visit www.bristol.gov.uk/cothamhill

Main photo: Martin Booth

Read more: Overwhelmingly positive reaction to Princess Victoria Street pedestrianisation

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