Disputed traffic restrictions suspended by council

The Portswood Road bus gate meant only buses, taxis and cyclists were permitted to travel along sections of the road at certain hours

A controversial bus gate designed to limit traffic on a busy high street has been suspended.

The Portswood Road restrictions meant only buses, taxis and cyclists were permitted to travel along sections of the road at certain hours.

It was part of a six-month trial by Southampton City Council, which started in January.

The measures will be lifted from Thursday after what the council called a comprehensive three-month review and feedback from local residents.

Residents had protested against the scheme in March, with some saying it was causing "chaos" on neighbouring small residential streets.

Protestors marched through Portswood to voice their concerns and Michael Mace, a resident of Brookvale Road, said the whole scheme had been a "fiasco".

Two separate petitions were set up calling to get rid of the scheme, one of which attracted more than 5,000 signatures.

Protests were held in March by local businesses and residents about the rush-hour closure

Councillor Eamonn Keogh, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: "Our approach has always been rooted in evidence and safety. We've used this trial to test the real-world impact of changes designed to make Portswood Broadway a safer, more attractive place to travel and spend time.

"The data shows that while the intended benefits are emerging, we must address unintended effects on surrounding roads. We are grateful to all residents and business who have taken the time to contact us to share their experiences with their thoughts about the trial."

The council said its assessment found a significant rise in traffic along nearby residential streets, including Brookvale Road, which raised concerns around road safety and congestion.

"We are acting decisively to relieve that pressure while continuing to explore long-term improvements. The council will work closely with residents in the coming months to understand why expected traffic patterns, such as use of Thomas Lewis Way, have not materialised. This engagement will help shape the next phase of the project, including possible new measures to protect residential roads and improve overall traffic flow," Mr Keogh said.