Concerns have been raised about the recent remodelling of the St Thomas’ roundabout as part of the Active Travel initiative for the area. 

While the redesign in the area aims to promote safer and more accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists, Town Councillor Martin Newell is among many who have voiced worries about unintended consequences that are becoming apparent since the project’s completion.

One of the issues highlighted is that vehicles, particularly larger ones, are mounting the curbs, leading to damage to the newly installed planting scheme. The initiative, which included bee friendly and perennial planting to enhance the aesthetics of the area, is now under threat due to the recurring curb-mounting. “I  fully support the goals of Active Travel, but there seems to be a miscalculation in the design that is proving problematic for road users” Cllr. Newell stated.

He further emphasised that while promoting environmentally friendly travel options is essential, it is equally important that the infrastructure serves all users safely. “The current situation is not only now starting to look unsightly but also creates a potential issue for the Cross.”

Local photographer and balloon historian Pete Garwood has also highlighted the problem on social media.

“I predicted that this ill-thought change to the roundabout was now making it much more likely that a vehicle would fail to navigate it properly and would create a very real risk of damaging the restored Overmonnow Cross on the roundabout.

“If you take the time to stand and watch the traffic navigate this roundabout you will notice that buses, and large vans seem to go around with no problem but many large lorries struggle to navigate the roundabout easily due to the encroachment of the so-called ‘Active Travel’ pavement out into the road,” he added.

Cllr. Newell has called for a review of the roundabout’s design, suggesting that modifications may be necessary to prevent further issues and ensure the safety of all road users, as well as the protection of the council’s investment in green spaces.

The cross at the centre,  originally mediaeval and also known as the Overmonnow Cross, was reconstructed in 1888 and has been classed as a Grade II listed structure since 15 August 1974.