I know there are strong feelings about the road closures in Faversham.
Temporary closures were introduced by Swale Borough Council last summer to allow for social distancing on some of the busiest streets in the town, but there are now plans to make these closures permanent.
In my response to the consultation on the plans, I’ve called on the Council to listen to concerns from local people and businesses.
I’ve heard from businesses that the road closures have made it harder for shops and traders in the town to get deliveries, especially those without rear access to their premises.
I have also heard from disabled people who have found it harder to access shops and services in the town.
If road closures are to be maintained after the pandemic, then there needs to be a plan from Swale Borough Council to address these problems.
This should include an impact assessment of the current road closures so that decisions can be made as much as possible on the basis of data and evidence.
We all want safe streets and to see people back out and about in town, but the way to do this is by working with our local shop owners and traders.
