Campaigners win funding for Frampton End Road scheme

At the recent Frome Vale Area Forum councillors awarded funding for a scheme to close Frampton End Road/Mayshill at three points and introduce a 20mph speed limit on the lanes.

Lead petitioner Nick Carver said, "After many years of campaigning for the closure of Frampton End Road by a dedicated team of people, it was fantastic that the members of the Frome Vale Area Committee approved the funding for the closure of the road to motor vehicles. This will now enable many local people to more safely enjoy the area for recreational purposes".

Marilyn Wright from Algars Mill on the Frome Valley Walkway at Frampton End Road, Iron Acton said, “So many users of this road have supported it's closure for many years and I'm delighted that the Frome Vale Area Committee gave their full backing for completion of the scheme. Algars Mill, a Grade II listed building, has been damaged by a heavy goods vehicle and many residents of the road have endured continual damage to their properties and dry-stone walls. Several users of the road have reported terrifying 'near misses' and there have been many accidents and numerous deaths of pets, including a horse. The road will be able to be used much more safely for the benefit of walkers, horse-riders and cyclists.”

Gary Weeks, Frampton Cotterell, said, "I am delighted and relieved that this project is now coming to a successful conclusion after seeing an increase in traffic and lorries using this lane due to sat-nav directions. I was pleased to discover that after personally consulting with local residents at the Frampton Cotterell end of Frampton End Road, 74% were in favor of the road closure. We will all be able to enjoy this rural area whilst the traffic remains on the main roads."

Alan Bracey from Coalpit Heath, representing the cycling fraternity said, “This is a huge step forward in making these roads very much safer to cycle. Over the years it has become increasingly dangerous while riding a bike only to be met by large and sometimes speeding vehicles whose only thought has been to get to their destination as quickly as possible with little regard for other road users. I particularly pay tribute to Nick Carver, Marylin Wright and Gary Weeks for their efforts in organising the 760 name petition to begin the process of closing these roads to motorised traffic. This is an example of well organised local people striving to improve their local area.”

Putting the necessary Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) in place involves a fairly lengthy formal process. Work will start on this in the new financial year. We'll keep you informed on progress.