Before and after pictures: Vision unveiled for ‘car free’ Bristol

A vision for fewer cars in Bristol has been unveiled by climate campaigners as part of a bid encouage the city council to action over ‘car dominance’. Charity Possible has drawn up a design for Newfoundland Circus - and this week shared it on a billboard in the area.

The group wants change in the area and has acted on a ‘Car Free Vision’ report by organisation Fare City, which says roads used by private vehicles should be reclaimed for alternative uses such as walking and cycling in cities like Bristol. The term ‘car free’ does not denote the city would be free of cars - but rather a substantial reduction in the use of private vehicles.

Newfoundland Circus, at the bottom of the M32, is one of the most congested parts of Bristol, which was named the second most congested city in the UK. The vision drawn up shows the scene almost deserted of cars with a tram line heading into the centre. There are bike lines and a pedestrian crossing as well as open spaces and more greenery.

The design has been drawn up along with a vision for Chelsea Road in Easton where, the charity Possible, say is not safe for pedestrians with pavements difficult to use and motorists often breaking the 20mph speed limit. The vision for Chelsea Road shows a bike line with open space, and no road for private vehicles.

Both visions have now been shared with the public ‘to show what the future could look like’, says the charity which wants them to also ignite discussion on how it can be acheived.

Rob Bryher, a Bristol member of the charity, said: “I’m thrilled to unveil these visions for the future of Newfoundland Circus and Chelsea Road. In order to meet our climate goals, it’s essential that we get people driving less.

“That shouldn’t make us feel trepidation but excitement. And these visions embody that excitement. They are green, vibrant, and allow a diverse range of people to travel easily and would give the people of Bristol more travel options, not fewer.

“Our cities have the potential to be wonderful places to live and tools to combat climate change - let’s make that change.”

Bristol City Council made a decision to make a controversial pedestrianisation scheme in Princess Victora Street in Clifton Village permanent last year. It has plans to do the same with 11 more streets in the city including St Mark’s Road in Easton, Rosemary Lane in Eastville and Overton Road in Bishopton.

The council is also leading a East Bristol Liveable Neighbourhoods project which could see cycling and walking prioritised in some areas. Meanwhile, the Clean Air Zone brought in last year is expected to reduce the traffic travelling into the city by approximately 1,500 vehicles per day.