The proposal is for the Gorge to be closed to vehicles initially once a month but MHNL state, “This is only the beginning…"
The Mendip Hills National Landscape Team (MHNL) has launched a public consultation to gather feedback, and invite you to share your feedback on the proposals via the survey here (Overview & Questions)
The consultation period will run from Wednesday 31st January to Tuesday 12th March 2024. This will help to shape the next steps agreed, so your feedback is important.
The proposal is for the Gorge to be closed to vehicles initially once a month. MHNL state, “This is only the beginning… We hope through the proposed ETROs we can improve the visitor experience and look forward to exploring more opportunities in the future.”
This follows feedback from local residents and businesses about the volume of traffic and anti-social driving in the Gorge, which could impact safety and people’s enjoyment of the area.” However, “...initial conversations with stakeholders, some businesses and organisations expressed concerns about the regulation impacting local businesses and car parking. Our proposed approach reflects these comments. The experimental order is intended to test an approach to understand how it could address the feedback received during previous discussions.
MHNL “want to create an experience that is fitting for a naturally beautiful and significant visitor attraction like Cheddar Gorge. … When the order is in place, Cliff Road (B3135) would be closed to vehicles from above the formal car parks to the Black Rock car park.”
This would allow walkers, cyclists and other visitors the chance to enjoy the Gorge more safely and enhance their visitor experience. For Cheddar an accessibility strategy was prepared setting out a range of short and longer term projects aimed at delivering sustainable transport improvements and enhanced accessibility.
See :
- Cheddar Gorge Public Realm Regeneration Project Report
- Appendix 1 Cheddar Levelling Up Fund Engagement Report
- Cheddar Accessibility Strategy
MHNL state, “It would offer opportunity for meet-ups, activities and events to be held in the Gorge and chance for everyone to enjoy one Britain’s most spectacular natural landmarks… Businesses throughout Cheddar remain open as usual during this time, as will the car parks at either end of the Gorge.
MHNL “will share any further updates on this website. You can also leave your email address in the feedback form to receive project updates.
For further information, you can contact the project team on CheddarGorge@distinctivecomms.co.uk or call 0330 107 0535.
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