The Shallows and Mead Lane in Saltford have new parking restriction measures in place, following collaborative work between Saltford Parish Council, Saltford’s B&NES Ward Councillors and B&NES Council officers over the past year. B&NES Council’s parking enforcement team have confirmed that Saltford’s river side roads are on their priority list.
The newly implemented Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) follow a B&NES Council consultation earlier this year, which saw an overwhelmingly positive response from residents in favour of the new parking measures.
Double yellow lines have now been installed along the majority of both these residential roads, and The Shallows has a Residents Parking Zone (RPZ) – the first in Saltford.
Over recent years these two narrow roads, running adjacent to the River Avon, have been the subject of safety concerns following numerous instances of dangerous and inconsiderate parking. Scenes of gridlock, which severely reduced access for emergency vehicles, led to several police road closures in Saltford’s ‘old village’ area. Access concerns and safety issues, due to the high number of vehicle users parking on The Shallows and Mead Lane, were repeatedly raised by residents and users of the river bank to Saltford Parish Council and B&NES Ward Councillors. The police and fire brigade expressed similar concerns during busy periods.
The new Traffic Regulation Orders on The Shallows and Mead Lane mean that parking is restricted on the majority of these two roads, as indicated by double yellow lines. The Resident Parking Zones are clearly signposted. A 3 hour limited waiting bay has been created on The Shallows near the car park, and The Shallows car park itself has parking spaces in marked bays only.
The new parking restrictions have been welcomed by both residents and visitors who use these roads. Benefits include a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists, good access for vehicle users, and the ability for residents to access and park near their homes during busy periods.
The new parking restrictions have also led to an improved environment for those who come to enjoy the river side setting, such as kayakers and anglers. The measures also protect the riverbank structure.
B&NES Ward Councillor Duncan Hounsell stated “It is exceptional for a Residents Parking Zone (RPZ) to be created in a relatively small area. B&NES Council has moved swiftly to respond to the needs of residents to have priority parking in The Shallows. With the parking restrictions now in place on a permanent basis it is clear that the best way for visitors to enjoy Saltford’s riverside is by cycling or walking, whilst there are disabled parking bays within the Shallows public car park where limited parking continues to be provided.”
Councillor Chris Warren, Chair of Saltford Parish Council, added ‘The Parish Council has worked closely with B&NES Council (the Highways Authority) to achieve the implementation of the TROs, which benefit The Shallows and Mead Lane residents, the wider Saltford community who come to enjoy the river side area, and visitors to the village. Ensuring safety and access at this location is paramount’.
B&NES Council’s Parking Enforcement Officers are regularly visiting the area to ensure the new Traffic Regulation Orders are being followed, including ensuring appropriate parking in the car park and in the dedicated Resident Parking Zone bays.
