Council to review controversial new one-way system

The new one-way system affects Salmon Parade and East Quay in Bridgwater

A council has decided to review a controversial one-way system after a petition against it was signed by more than 5,000 people.

As part of the Celebration Mile works in Bridgwater, Somerset, East Quay and Salmon Parade have been made one-way to traffic.

Councillor Bill Revans, the Liberal Democrat leader of Somerset Council said: "We've listened carefully to residents and local businesses, and are already taking another look."

It comes after 5,400 people signed a petition against the changes and the local Conservative MP, Sir Ashley Fox, said it was "clogging up roads around town".

"We know that changes to road layouts take time to bed in," said Mr Revans.

"But my priority is to find a balanced and practical solution that works for the community."

Mr Revans previously said that the scheme was planned and approved under the previous Conservative-run Sedgemoor District Council and Somerset County Council.

He said the council wanted to work with all parties and Bridgwater Town Council to "make sure we get this right and listen to local people".

Local businesses told the BBC that they wanted the changes "reversed immediately"

Mandy Maskell, who runs a shop in the Eastover indoor market, said the changes have affected trade.

"Everybody's business in here is down," she said.

"I can't speak for the guys out on Eastover, but I know mine is. The cafe is definitely a lot quieter.

"It's a nightmare. I've probably got a couple of months, if I'm lucky."

Diogo Rodrigues, the Conservative opposition leader for Somerset Council, who set up the petition, said "it's clear this change isn't working for Bridgwater" and he is calling for a meeting with the council.