Consultation on proposed speed changes in Congresbury

Overview

North Somerset Council is considering changes to speed limits on Brinsea Road, High Street, Broad Street, Kent Road, and their surrounding residential areas in Congresbury. This consultation provides an opportunity for you to review our proposals and share your feedback.

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Who we are consulting

This consultation is open to all members of the public, with particular focus on:

  • Users of Brinsea Road, High Street, Broad Street, and Kent Road.

  • Residents of the surrounding residential areas.

  • Local businesses that may be impacted by the proposed changes.

We are also consulting with Congresbury parish council and other statutory bodies regarding these proposals.

Proposed changes

We are proposing the following speed limit and traffic calming measures:

  • A North Somerset gateway feature on Brinsea Road/High Street (approaching from Langford), introducing a 20mph speed limit extending to the junction with Broad Street.

  • A 20mph speed limit for Broad Street.

  • A 20mph speed limit for residential areas accessed from Brinsea Road/High Street, as shown in the accompanying plan.

  • Speed cushions between the gateway feature and the zebra crossing near Stonewall Lane, with the zebra crossing raised onto a table.

  • A 20mph speed limit for Kent Road, parts of Wrington Lane, and their adjacent streets (as indicated in the plans).

  • 20mph repeater signage throughout the affected areas.

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Why are these changes needed?

Traffic challenges in Congresbury

The B3133 (Brinsea Road/High Street) is a key transport route through this rural village, carrying high volumes of traffic. However, narrow footways and limited crossing points make it challenging for residents to walk or cycle to local amenities, including shops and schools.

With limited road space and vehicles sometimes travelling at speeds that feel unsafe, many residents opt to use cars for short local journeys rather than walking, cycling, or scooting.

Benefits of a Lower Speed Limit

Lowering speed limits will:

  • Enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.

  • Encourage active travel, improving both physical and mental well-being.

  • Support the local economy - studies show that people who walk to high streets spend up to 40% more than those who drive (Transport for London, 2013).

  • Make the village a more attractive place to live and visit.

What are 20mph speed limit zones?

A 20mph speed limit zone is an area where vehicle speeds are reduced to enhance safety and create a more pleasant environment. These zones have been shown to reduce accidents, encourage active travel, and improve the quality of life for local communities.

Alignment with North Somerset’s Transport Strategy

These proposed changes align with:

  • North Somerset’s 20mph Action Plan

  • The North Somerset Active Travel Strategy (adopted 2021)

Both initiatives aim to prioritise walking and cycling where possible, supporting a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable transport network.

We invite you to share your views on these proposals to help shape the future of transport in Congresbury.

Time left to respond to the consultation

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Timeline

  • Opened
    26 Feb 2025 at 09:00
  • Closes
    11 Apr 2025 at 23:59

Respond

Details

Organisational Information
Job role or team to contact for questions Sustainable Travel and Road Safety Team
Contact Email sustainable.travel@n-somerset.gov.uk

Project Information
Aim of this consultation The aim of this consultation is to gather feedback from residents, businesses, and road users on proposed speed limit changes in Congresbury. By engaging with the community, we hope to ensure that the changes meet local needs while improving road safety, encouraging active travel, and enhancing the overall environment of the village.
Close Date 11 Apr 2025 23:59
Consultation Topic
  • Communities: including local partnerships, neighbourhoods, equalities, crime and anti-social behaviour
  • Culture and leisure: including libraries, tourism, the built-environment and heritage
  • Policy: including new or changed council policies, strategies or regulations on any topic
  • Travel and transport: including public transport, active travel, traffic calming and major projects**
Context for this consultation North Somerset Council is considering changes to the speed limits on Brinsea Road / High Street, Broad Street, Kent Road, and their associated residential areas in Congresbury. These roads experience high volumes of traffic, and current conditions can make walking and cycling challenging for residents. The proposed changes align with local and regional transport strategies aimed at promoting safer, more accessible, and sustainable travel options.