• Swindon & Wiltshire Economy
• Tuesday April 8 2025
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Newbury town centre to stay car-free for longer, council confirms

Newbury town centre will remain car-free for longer as part of an extended trial, West Berkshire Council has confirmed.

The Department for Transport today (Tuesday) approved the council’s application for extended hours of its pedestrianisation scheme.

Starting on May 19, Northbrook Street (pictured), Bridge Street, Bartholomew Street (north), Mansion House Street, Wharf Street, and Market Place will be car-free from 10am until 11pm – extending the evening and nigh-time hours from 5pm.

The Experimental Traffic Regulation Order follows a pre-trial consultation between September and November 2024 where residents, businesses, and visitors shared their views on the proposal.

The council says there was a “mixed response, and a good level of support.” The council intends to keep the consultation going during the extended trial.

The council’s own figures show that of the 2,487 people who responded to the survey, 36.7 per cent supported the extension to the pedestrianised hours, while 58.5 per cent were opposed and 4.8 per cent were neutral.

Eighty-four per cent of respondents were from Newbury and five per cent of responses were from businesses.

Nevertheless, the council says the initiative will:

Boost the local economy – more attractive spaces encourage visitors to stay longer, increasing footfall for businesses.
Enhance the environment – a cleaner, quieter town centre with more outdoor dining and event opportunities.
Improve safety – fewer vehicle interactions make the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
Encourage active travel – a more walkable, bike-friendly town centre supports healthier, greener transport choices.

Cllr Stuart Gourley, executive member for the environment and highways, said: “We are pleased to have secured Department for Transport approval to trial this important initiative for Newbury.

“Extending pedestrianisation has the potential to create a safer, greener, more vibrant town centre while supporting local businesses and promoting sustainability.

“This trial allows us to test the benefits, listen to residents and businesses, and shape the future of our town centre together.”