Editor

I am writing about the safe zones established in Aberystwyth town centre, one of four such sites in Ceredigion.

Initially, my concerns were about disabled access to the zones and those who live within the zones who are reliant on cars and are unable to come and go as they wish.

Although a lot of work needs to be done regarding disabled access, to date Ceredigion County Council has been receptive to suggestions for improvements.

Now the bigger issue seems to be if Aberystwyth needs or can accommodate a pedestrianised town centre. Have studies been undertaken to determine if the surrounding roads are capable of serving a pedestrianised zone?

The county council will be coming under some pressure from the Welsh Government, who are looking to improve air quality and opportunity to exercise (primarily cycle routes) and Ceredigion are using emergency powers under the Coronavirus Act 2020 to drive through this agenda.

I note the council’s assertion that the Aberystwyth plan is to help protect the vulnerable by providing room for social distancing (café chairs and tables notwithstanding). I am yet to be fully convinced.

Research into successful pedestrianisation seems to be exclusively on cities. Smaller schemes tend not to do as well, with business rates rising, smaller retailers going out of business and increased antisocial behaviour.

Newport, Holywell and Llanelli have all applied for depedestrianisation. Bridgend Borough Council held a consultation with overwhelming support for removing the pedestrianisation.

Another joint characteristic which pedestrianised areas from Bogota to Oslo to Holywell have in common is that they are on the flat. If after consultation, surveys and evaluation, pedestrianisation appears to be viable and in the best interests of the town then an overhaul of the existing scheme is required.

One compromise that appears to work in some places is that vehicular access is restricted to vehicles displaying blue badges, with clearly marked disabled parking bays in the pedestrianised area; and speed restricted to 5mph. In reaching a decision as to whether or not this scheme goes forward we have to place our trust in the county council to act in the best interests of the economy of the county and of all sections of the community.

George Holloway Aberystwyth

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