Why ‘bonkers’ plan to make south Bristol neighbourhood traffic-free makes complete sense

OK, it might sound a bit bonkers initially to make Brislington traffic-free, but for those of us who live there, it makes complete sense.

Anybody who has ever had to wait at the traffic lights at the junction of the Bath Road and West Town Lane, whether in a car, on a bike or on foot, will know that this corner of south Bristol must be one of the most traffic-choked and polluted parts of the city. It is not pleasant.

One thing people unfamiliar with the area don’t realise is just how large and spread out Brislington is. The east and west parts of what was originally a tiny village (the bit which still boasts one of the city’s loveliest and most timeless churches) feel disconnected thanks to the enormous amount of traffic thundering through the A4 at Brislington Hill. 

As for the proposed removal of the 1960s footbridge there, even the most fanatical enthusiast of Brutalist architecture probably won’t shed a tear for its loss. Nobody uses it anyway.

And let’s spare a thought for all those small businesses set back from the road on Brislington Hill. From the brilliant Retro Bristol shop to Blu-Fire Smoke n Grill serving some of the best Jamaican food in Bristol, these businesses deserve to be even busier. If the road outside was calmer and free from all-day traffic jams, what a wonderful little enclave this could become.

We’re a long way off any decisions and these plans are at the earliest stages but I’m sure I’m not the only resident who supports these major proposals. Brislington’s already a brilliant and desirable place to live and these once in a generation plans could make it even better in terms of reducing pollution and traffic noise.

Watch those house prices rise.