LOCAL MP, Michelle Donelan, has called a meeting to discuss a better solution to traffic problems in Bath which does not simply move the problem to Wiltshire’s roads.
She says this would be the outcome of taking Cleveland Bridge out of the north south transport corridor for HGVs.
The local area has seen an increase in traffic due to a temporary restriction on Cleveland Bridge in Bath and the introduction of Bath’s Clean Air Zone. The MP has been attempting to work with BANES [Bath & North East Somerset] council to discuss the issue, alongside other Wiltshire MPS. Now, the Member of Parliament for the Chippenham constituency has called a meeting with Bath MP, Wera Hobhouse, and senior members of BANES council. She recently signed up to attend Vera Hobhouse MP’s public meeting on the issue and was not satisfied that BANES had given due consideration to the knock-on effects of the town’s traffic measures.
While Michelle Donelan acknowledges the importance of protecting a World Heritage City and its infrastructure, she says there is nothing to be gained by moving traffic onto other roads that are equally ill equipped to carry HGVs and heavy commuter traffic.
The meeting will also be attended by the leader of Wiltshire Council, cllr Richard Clewer, cabinet member for highways, cllr Mark McClelland, and director at Wiltshire Council, Sam Fox.
Michelle Donelan MP hopes to be able to push the case for a holistic solution to traffic problems in Bath and into Wiltshire and will be looking to engage and contribute constructively.
Michelle Donelan MP said, “I have received lots of correspondence from my constituents who have been severely impacted by the current temporary restrictions on Cleveland Bridge, coupled with the introduction of the Bath Clean Air Zone.
“Melksham has experienced much higher volumes of traffic as vehicles look for alternative routes to and from the M4 whiles villages in my constituency such as Atworth, Beanacre, Shaw, Winsley and Limpley Stoke (to name just a few) have experienced a severe knock-on effect, with large lorries rumbling through the village at all hours of the day and night.
“There needs to be a ‘heads together’ solution for this issue. One that helps Bath and constituencies in Wiltshire to deal with air quality and congestion. I look forward to this meeting to put forward the views of neighbouring settlements”