'Controversial' traffic restriction is 'called in'

Eleven councillors have signed a call-in

A decision to create a controversial, liveable neighbourhood traffic restriction permanent has been "called in".

In a recent survey by Bath and North East Somerset Council, 57% of residents living on Southlands, in Bath, were opposed to the changes including planters being placed in the now-closed road.

An earlier survey saw 71% of residents against the decision.

One opposition councillor said it "can't be seen as a good use of £13,700", but council cabinet member for transport Manda Rigby said pollution levels had dropped.

'Quality of life'

"In all cases, the NO2 readings are well below the government legal limit and also within the council’s own stricter targets," she said.

Labour opposition leader, Robin Moss said: "When almost three-quarters of local respondents say they’re against it, it can’t be seen as a good use of £13,700 of public money, which could be better used to help people struggling with the cost of living.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, 11 opposition councillors have signed a “call-in” of the decision which means it will go back before the council's scrutiny panel.

Independent group spokesperson Shaun Hughes said: "The council needs to listen to locally affected residents prior to making these decisions that affect people’s quality of life.”

If the call-in is accepted as valid by the council’s chief executive, it will be taken to the council scrutiny panel who can make a recommendation on any changes to the decision.

The panel has no power to make the decision itself, but it can make recommendations.