RESIDENTS have spoken out against proposals to introduce controversial traffic calming measures in Raglan.

At a public consultation on Monday night (6th March), residents and business owners in Raglan were able to view plans to introduce parking restrictions and a ‘pinch point’ on Raglan high street.

If the proposals are implemented, a one hour parking restriction would be imposed on the southern side of the high street while parking would be completely stopped on the north side of the street.

A ‘pinch point’ area could also be installed on the road outside the Beaufort Hotel.

In what was at times a heated discussion, those attending asked questions seeking information on the reasons behind the proposals, and whether they would have a negative effect on the high street.

A key concern from some was that removing traffic on the high street would increase the speed of vehicles passing through, and therefore potentially increasing the risk of accidents.

It was also highlighted that stopping traffic from parking could have a negative effect on businesses located on the high street.

Alongside plans displayed at the event, concerns highlighted by Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) included the current congestion which is said to affect the environment, and highlights that the recently-opened 24 hour car park would provide a suitable alternative to parking on the street.

The exhibition, convened by Raglan Community Council, was attended by an estimated 235 people with an interest or concern. 143 feedback forms were completed and received on the evening.

Speaking after the exhibition, AM Nick Ramsay, himself a resident of the village, said: “I do not believe these proposals are in the best interests of either the residents of Raglan or local businesses. In fact, I think they could potentially be highly damaging.

“Whilst I welcome any discussion around ways that traffic flows through the village can be improved, I fear that removing parked vehicles in the day will only risk speeding up the traffic and place greater pressure on adjacent roads and parking areas.

“I also share the concerns of local businesses – some already struggling with huge hikes in their business rates – that any restrictions will reduce the passing trade that has to date made the High Street viable.

“Whilst only a consultation at this stage, I think this scheme is in essence a sledgehammer to crack a nut.

“I hope the views of the vast majority of the public are heard loud and clear and this scheme is dropped at the earliest opportunity.”

Alison Willott, Liberal Democrat campaigner in Raglan, said: “Most people in our lovely village do not want this scheme.  At the moment, the traffic situation may seem somewhat chaotic, but it does work to keep the shops flourishing and the slowness of the through traffic makes it safe to cross the road.

“The loss of so many parking spaces will severely damage the shops, especially as they are also facing huge rises in their business rates. Customers come from many miles around to shop in Raglan. Much of this trade will be lost if people can’t park and pop in.”

MCC’s Highways’ Group Engineer Paul Keeble said: “The exhibition was well attended and the feedback forms will shortly be analysed and reported back to the local member and community council before further decisions are made. It may however be inferred from discussions at the meeting that the majority of those attending did not wish to see significant changes to the high street.

“There was however backing for the suggestion of parking restrictions at the junctions of Chepstow and Monmouth Road, as well as enforcement of the current parking restrictions outside the petrol garage.

“Officers were very pleased that many people attended and were willing to share their views on this matter; it was evident how valued Raglan is to the community and we would only wish to make changes necessary to improve road safety while supporting the village and local businesses.”