00:00Bristol's controversial plan to restrict cars from Park Street could be facing delays despite
00:08hopes to begin work as early as October. Back in March, Green councillors approved
00:14£15.5 million plan to transform the iconic shopping street, but nearby six months later
00:21the city is still waiting for funding to be signed off.
00:25The money would come from the city's Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, but it's
00:32not yet clear when a decision could be made. That call lies with the West of England Combined
00:38Authority, or WECA, which is still reviewing Bristol City Council's full business case.
00:46Without that green light, no start date or construction schedule can be confirmed, and for a project
00:52of this scale, which would significantly change how the area is used. That's becoming a growing
00:59concern. The proposal includes a new bus gate designed to prevent most cars from driving
01:05through Park Street altogether. It also promises wider pavements, better cycling infrastructure
01:12and improved access for public transport, but cars wouldn't be banned completely. Drivers
01:18could still access shops and businesses, but only via surrounding side roads. Supporters
01:24say it is a much-needed shift towards greener, safer city travel. Critics argue that it could
01:30hit local traders and make access harder for people with mobility needs. As of now, the wait
01:37continues. WECA says it is still reviewing the details, but has not offered a timeline.
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