Design work will start to introduce access and safety improvements to North Berwick High Street

 

Approval was granted at today’s (Tuesday 25 April) full Council meeting for the introduction of a series of measures to improve both safety and access to and along North Berwick High Street.

Longstanding engagement with the community going back at least 60 years has highlighted concerns and issues over road safety for pedestrians and cyclists and equality of access for people with impaired mobility.

Recent community engagement has also highlighted concerns that the increasing volume of motorised traffic is dominating accessibility to the detriment of pedestrians and cyclists. East Lothian Council engaged an independent consultant to build upon the work of previous studies, including the 2017 North Berwick Charrette to propose a design for changes to the road layout to create a safer, more accessible and more attractive High Street that meets the needs of all users and businesses.

Cllr John McMillan, Cabinet Member for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “North Berwick High Street is a popular destination for both local residents and visitors but significant concern has been raised in recent years about vehicle congestion and perceived safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists accessing this area.

“The North Berwick Charrette in 2017 placed ‘improving walking and access at the east end of High Street - making major people-focused improvements to walking and access conditions along this section of the street’ as one of the top 3 projects identified from their extensive community engagement. The council has now built upon that proposal by engaging an external consultant to carry out further engagement leading to the approval of these new measures today.

“Widening pavements and creating dedicated areas for businesses loading and unloading and for blue badge holders will introduce a more balanced approach for access. I believe these measures will help to create an even more welcoming environment for people to the High Street.”

Published: Tuesday, 25th April 2023