Experts to review controversial Clevedon wiggly road markings

The bike racks have now been removed from the cycle lane

Independent experts are being appointed to review a controversial beachfront road scheme.

North Somerset Council introduced a 20mph one-way system and a segregated cycle lane along The Beach in Clevedon last autumn.

The council said the scheme was intended to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists.

But in January, thousands of people called for the wiggly white line and cycle lane to be scrapped.

Clevedon South ward councillor Hannah Young said she was a Clevedon resident herself and received feedback about the scheme on a daily basis.

She said: "There is no doubt that it has been controversial.

"I regularly receive positive as well as negative feedback from members of the community and many suggestions for improvements.

The council is appointing independent experts to review changes made to Hill Road and The Beach

"The review process will mean that the concerns raised about the design - its safety, accessibility, aesthetics, parking arrangements and effectiveness in meeting its active travel aims - can be explored fully and transparently and costed options provided for any proposed changes."

In May, leader of North Somerset Council Mike Bell, promised to review the scheme.

"We are making good on that promise and the independent review will enable us to hear the concerns of the community, reflect on priorities and make high level recommendations on how we can move forward together," he said.

Council leaders will hold a public meeting on 20 July for people to give feedback on the impact of the project and any changes needed.

Cathy Hawkins has been campaigning against the seafront changes

The Save our Seafront (SOS) campaign group said the "barmy curvy lines made North Somerset Council into a viral laughing stock of the nation" and it wants the seafront put back to how it was.

Primarily concerned about safety issues, loss of parking and the effect on local businesses, group founder, Cathy Hawkins, said: "We are pleased that North Somerset has announced an independent review will be carried out into the seafront scheme and a public meeting.

"However, we are disappointed that this review doesn't sound very independent as it also says this scheme is 'intended to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists on Hill Road and The Beach in Clevedon' because SOS were not aware of any issues with pedestrian or cycling access to these areas before the changes were made.

"This sounds like justification for a crazy scheme before the jury is out."