Wiggly road markings to be removed in weeks

Work to reverse controversial "wiggly" road markings at a town's seafront will commence next month.

North Somerset Council sparked outrage in Clevedon when it introduced the changes along the waterfront in 2022. RAC previously described the lines as one of the "most bizarre" road schemes it had seen.

Measures such as the removal of sea-facing parking and the introduction of a one-way system and two lane cycle path were also unpopular.

It originally cost about £1m and a further £425,000 is being spent on the reversal, but the council said the move was "in line with feedback".

The work would begin in mid-February and was expected to be completed within 12 weeks, the council said.

It will include the reintroduction of sea-facing parking, removal of the two-way cycle path and the unusual wavy road markings.

Loading bays and a coach drop-off point will be installed and the introduction of vehicle access to the promenade for boats and food vans.

In addition, the council said pedestrian crossing points would be improved and planters would be repositioned.

However, the seafront will remain a one-way system and the double cycle lane will now by a contra-flow lane for bikes.

The roundabout installed at the junction of Alexandra Road and The Beach - unpopular because it was just a hollow circle - will also remain but it will be adjusted to a standard mini-roundabout.

The council promised improved road markings and signage to prevent drivers falling foul of the one-way system.

"The updates taking place are in line with public feedback gathered over the last two years," said Hannah Young, North Somerset Council's executive member for highways.

Sections of the road would be closed during the works, but access would be maintained at all time for businesses and residents, the council said.

The X6 and X7 bus services may also be diverted at times.

The council said the cost of the changes was being covered via a number of sources, including council reserves and funding for the local transport plan.

Further cash is coming from Section 106 money from developers - a sum negotiated during the planning application process to contribute towards community spaces - as well as £21,000 that was unallocated from the Great Lakes project.

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