Contractors have been praised for their hard work under ‘extremely challenging conditions’ - in wrapping up ‘Active Travel’ works in the centre of Saundersfoot, in time for the Easter Holidays - with a local county councillor stating that the enhancements have made the seaside village a ‘safer, more accessible environment for everyone’ - whether walking, cycling or driving through. Many have criticised the need for the work along Cambrian Terrace, as part of the seaside village’s ongoing ‘Active Travel’ scheme administered by Pembrokeshire County Council - with the introduction of a cycle lane for the centre of the seaside village, and the removal of some disabled bays, in particular, facing a backlash, with critics stating that it hinders access for disabled residents and visitors. “It’s making the village a no go zone. Very few cyclists will use this path as it goes to nowhere? The cyclists will just stay on the road as the cycle path doesn't continue up St Brides Hill or Sandyhill Road. It’s pointless. As for large vehicles delivering to the businesses it will be a nightmare. This will cause grid lock in the summer,” were the views of one local shared on social media. Local butcher Mark Heywood remarked: “I’ve worked in the village for over 20 years and can say I hardly ever see a cyclist. In the summer the streets are busy and those crossings they’ve put in could see stand still traffic all day. Businesses will suffer because of this.” However, County councillor for Saundersfoot’s South Ward, Cllr Chris Williams has welcomed the work, even though he sympathises the views of those that have been against it, stating: “Following a challenging 12-week period of works within Saundersfoot, I would like to take this opportunity to thank residents and business owners for their patience, understanding, and continued support throughout. “The works, particularly during the difficult weather conditions in January and February, have inevitably caused disruption. I fully recognise the frustrations experienced, especially in relation to movement around the village and the temporary loss of parking on Cambrian Terrace, which is vital to both residents and local businesses. Over recent months, Cllr Williams said that he’s attended numerous meetings and held many conversations with members of the community; and while there have been concerns, he said that the ‘overwhelming majority’ have supported the need for enhancement, improved safety, better accessibility in the centre of the village, as indicated in the consultation process. “At the heart of these works has been a clear focus on safety and to meet these needs, safer crossing points with improved visibility have been created,” he continued.
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