Today’s the day Saltford residents can have their say about plans to re-open the local station.
The drop-in event, which is open to all local residents, is taking place today (Tuesday the 25th February) from 4pm to 8pm in the Avon Room of Saltford Hall.
Courtesy Akeman Press
The event is taking place following pressure from the village’s two Conservative councillors for the Council to hold a village-wide consultation on the idea of rebuilding and reopening Saltford’s railway station, which has been closed since 1970.
Council transport officers will be at the event to answer questions from residents about the proposals. Some of the issues which residents will be able to quiz the officers on include:
– The cost of reopening the station and how it could be funded;
– The impact a new station would have on parking on local roads and possible parking restrictions;
– The potential impact on traffic on the A4;
– The overall feasibility of the project and timeframes for any reopening.
Saltford Councillors Francine Haeberling and Mathew Blankley are encouraging residents to attend the event to gather more information about the proposals and give their views on the plans.
Some residents have already raised concerns over the impact the station could have on parking on local roads and the parking restrictions that would be required to address this. Francine and Mathew have said it is important for residents to get their say on the idea at an early stage of the process so that these and any other concerns can be taken on board by the Council.
Cllr Francine Haeberling (Cons, Saltford) commented:
“We welcome the fact that B&NES is holding a consultation on the idea of reopening Saltford’s railway station, something we first called for over a year ago.
“Reopening a closed train station is a complex and lengthy process, so it’s vital that residents have a say in the matter at the earliest possible stage.
“I would therefore urge local residents to come along to this event, gather information about the plans and give their views. It will also be an opportunity for the Council to ascertain what the level of usage would be and take on board any local concerns.
“The Council’s feasibility study was based on the assumption that a significant number of passengers would drive to the station to catch the train, so clearly the issue of parking is something which needs to be looked into carefully.”
