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Talk of Penarth town square

From the Penarth Times, first published Thursday 21st Feb 2002.

ONE OF Penarth's busiest town centre roads could be made one-way or pedestrianised if plans currently under discussion go ahead.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council is looking at introducing a one-way system and pedestrianisation scheme at Lower Glebe Street.

According to the authority, the existing parking and traffic arrangements in the area often lead to congestion, so therefore a reassessment is timely.

It says creating a revised traffic circulation scheme could lead to the creation of a pedestrianised/vehicle free area, which could be used for events. Exclusion of general vehicle traffic could also assist wheelchair users.

At meetings of the scrutiny committee (economy and environment) and the Cabinet this week, members looked at a report from Rob Quick, director of environmental and economic regeneration.

He said: "The introduction of a one-way system could increase parking capacity which would further add to the economic attraction of Penarth town centre."

It is estimated 20 additional parking spaces could be created.

He added: "The council, however, needs to be clear that any revised circulation arrangements will not have any disadvantageous effects on the businesses and residents in the area."

The introduction of such a scheme could, it is claimed, form the basis for a town square.

But Mr Quick said: "It is important the council fully assesses the impact of any scheme.

"Therefore it is recommended that an assessment be undertaken of the impact of any change in the vehicle circulation and parking regimes, and that should the potential benefits be confirmed, a temporary traffic order be proposed and the scheme be introduced on an experimental basis."

The cost of the scheme is yet to be determined, and funds would need to be found from the existing directorate budget.

* The scheme has now been referred to the policy committee to be discussed on February 28.

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