Free parking in Keynsham on Saturdays this Christmas

Free parking on Saturdays in council-owned car parks during December is being offered to encourage people to ‘shop local’ in Keynsham High Street.

Works to complete the Keynsham High Street for public realm improvement scheme continues at pace despite some delays caused by complications such as complex ground conditions and the ongoing challenges sourcing construction supplies. To avoid further delays works will continue into December.  

Works are expected to shut down in mid-December with works restarting on the 4 January 2022. The High Street will remain closed to traffic during the shutdown for safety reasons. 

Councillor Richard Samuel, deputy leader and cabinet member for Economic Development & Resources, said: “Until recently, Phase 1 was on track for a substantial completion ahead of the Christmas embargo. However, due to unforeseen construction issues and complications with utilities, this now not possible. The haulage crisis has also created additional delays. To stop works for our usual Christmas embargo would extend the construction programme, creating further disruption for residents and traders. The continuation of works into December enables the project to be completed as soon as possible.

“Due to the exceptional circumstances, we are offering free parking in Keynsham car parks every Saturday in December to make it easier for residents and visitors to shop local and support the fantastic range of local shops, specialist retailers, cafés and restaurants in Keynsham.”

The major works to improve Keynsham High Street and revitalise the town centre began on June 1. Both sides of the street are now substantially paved in new high-quality materials along with new drainage and street lighting installed. 

In January 2022 construction will resume to complete the final sections of works. Traffic Management will be required to upgrade the pelican crossing and improve the highway arrangement at the High Street/Bath Hill junction.

The council continues to work closely with the Rock Road development’s contractors to find an opportunity for the sewer works to be done at a time that minimises the impact on people accessing Keynsham and does not delay the high street programme.

The Keynsham High Street Public Realm scheme includes footpath widening and resurfacing, better signage and cycling and bus stop facilities on the High Street between Bath Hill and Charlton Road. There will also be new street furniture, streetlights, landscaping and trees.

The scheme is funded by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership through the Local Growth and Getting Building Funds, administered by the West of England Combined Authority and the West of England Combined Authority through its Love our High Streets programme.

For more information on the plans and for construction updates please visit: www.bathnes.gov.uk/keynsham.