New Western Harbour plans ease concerns in Cumberland Basin. New homes, infrastructure updates, and flood defense strategies detailed.
Locals might be tired of these proposals, having seen many versions over the years. They might only believe it when they see it actually happen. This plan could be scaled back from past ideas and seems to be the minimum people expected.
The Riverside Garden Centre feels relieved, as they were worried about a new road cutting through their land. The new plan now shows flats above their site. They will get a bigger shop and cafe by the water, ensuring the garden center can stay.
A spokesperson for the garden center is happy and grateful to their customers for their support. They look forward to being part of the new community and will work with the council on the plans, though the changes will take many years.
Motorists who use Brunel Way also feel relieved. The Plimsoll Bridge was thought to need replacing; however, new surveys show it is in better shape, meaning repairs will be cheaper than a replacement. The Avon Bridge will still need replacing.
They will build a new path for walkers and cyclists near it. However, the council faces needs for flood protection, must repair the roads, and building homes is also crucial. The council leader says this plan must happen.
He believes these plans are based on evidence and that funding has been identified for key parts of the project. The area’s infrastructure needs immediate repair, and waiting will only make things harder.
The council has financial challenges, so much of the funding will come from elsewhere. The West of England Combined Authority will help, and funding will come from the Highways Agency too. The Environment Agency will help with flood defenses.
The plan includes apartments on both sides of the Cumberland Basin. Some worry about a new road and affordable housing. However, the plan avoids tall towers and roads near the Nova Scotia pub, ensuring buildings won’t be taller than warehouses.
Brunel Way will remain the main road. The council wants it to be a good place to live, and this plan will allow more people to live there. They want better paths for walking and cycling, while the plan also includes opening up local heritage.