**Radical Proposal to Eliminate Cars from Bristol City Centre**
The Bristol Cable recently reported on a radical proposal to eliminate cars from Bristol City Centre, spearheaded by the new Green-led council. The chair of the transport committee, Ed Plowden, envisions ambitious projects to enhance bus priority and cycle infrastructure, particularly in the city center.
The plan includes closing some roads to cars, a move that is expected to evoke mixed reactions from the public. A public consultation has been initiated to gather feedback on these proposed changes. Additional measures, such as banning cars from Park Street, are also on the horizon.
Following the election in May, where a new council was elected with policy committees replacing the mayoral system, the Greens are seeking support from other parties to implement their transportation agenda. Plowden outlined the Greens’ comprehensive plan to reform the city’s transport system, which includes improvements to buses and cycling, implementing a 20mph default speed limit, and introducing a workplace parking levy. Moreover, the proposal aims to restrict or eliminate car traffic in the city center.
The Greens inherited a city plagued by congestion, poor air quality, a struggling bus market, and high car ownership levels. Plowden emphasized the urgency of action, citing the time-limited investment of £540 million allocated for transportation projects across the West of England, with a significant portion earmarked for Bristol by 2027.
Proposed changes to the city center include the creation of new cycle routes and the establishment of a north-south express busway along Union Street, Bristol Bridge, and Redcliffe Street. Additionally, plans are underway to designate one of the Bedminster Bridges for buses and bikes and pedestrianize areas such as the Horsefair between Cabot Circus and Broadmead.
The Labour Party, which previously developed these plans, remains supportive of the proposed changes. However, concerns have been raised about the fast-track approval process, particularly by opposition parties like the Liberal Democrats. Plowden defended the expedited approach, citing the pressing need to address the city’s transportation challenges promptly.
As discussions continue between the Greens and other parties, the focus remains on the long-term sustainability of Bristol’s transportation infrastructure. With the city projected to experience a 20% population growth in the next two decades, the pressure to alleviate congestion and promote alternative modes of transportation intensifies. The consultation period for the proposed changes to the city center will conclude on 30 September, with the outcomes expected to shape the future of transportation in Bristol.