The centre of Radstock, which is being newly regenerated, is currently under extreme pressure for parking spaces. The yet to be leased business space in the new development stands empty, whilst frustrated parents, shoppers and workers search frantically for somewhere to leave their cars, with the loss of around 92 spaces due to redevelopment. On Monday evening, B&NES’ Senior Transport Planner, Nick Simmonds, joined Radstock Town Council to discuss a future strategy for the area.

A consultation on the new Transport Strategy is now underway with an event taking place in Midsomer Norton Town Hall on Thursday, 5th May from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Residents from across the Bath and North East Somerset area are being encouraged to attend, so that B&NES representatives can gather information about transport needs in individual areas. The strategy will be looking at a number of transport issues, including congestion, signage, road safety, public transport and parking.

Mr Simmonds encouraged Radstock Town Council to take part in the consultation as councillors have raised concerns about the lack of parking in Radstock, despite B&NES’ best efforts to free up space behind the library, and will soon be introducing a free ticketing system to encourage shoppers to return.

Cllr Boulton, Chair of Radstock Town Council, said: “The lack of parking in Radstock is stressful for traders and this should have been looked at in the beginning stages of development.”

Cllr Gary Dando agreed, stating that a consultation should have taken place four years ago and that the infrastructure of Radstock should have been taken into account before building began.

Councillors were also concerned about available parking being taken up by unofficial park and ride schemes seemingly operating in the town as a result of public transport provision being unreliable.

Mr Simmonds agreed with the points raised and said that B&NES would be happy to coordinate a proper discussion with the town council on these issues. He emphasised that public transport is a key issue and that having comments on the provision in individual areas would be useful for the consultation.

The consultation deadline is 9th May. Details can be obtained by calling: 01225 394041, emailing: [email protected] or by attending the meeting at Midsomer Norton Town Hall on 5th May.