NAILSEA
PEOPLE
On the road...
...or bus lanes and cycle tracks, this page is all about travel from Nailsea. But no planes (see Bristol Airport which has its own page) or boats but taxis, private car hire, cycling, coach and holiday companies as well as local petrol stations and places to get your two and four wheel vehicle repaired, fitted with new tyres and/or resprayed. It also includes on the buses timetable links and fare offers...
Read our special feature about Nailsea District Community Transport HERE
Thursday and Friday, December 5-6
WATER LEAK: For more information click on map
Nailsea & District Community Transport is celebrating taking delivery of its third electric bus, this one funded by The National Lottery.
The Southfield Road-based was awarded approximately £115,500 to purchase the fully accessible electric minibus by the lottery community fund.
These buses support its work with older, frail, disabled and isolated residents who have difficulty using public transport in the north east of North Somerset.
NDCT provide services which help to keep older people active, independent and engaged with their community, while also addressing issues of isolation caused by gaps within the local transport provision.
NDCT has been running since 1994 as a not-for-profit, Community Benefit Society set up by local volunteers to fill gaps in transport provision for older and disabled people not able to use public transport.
During the 30 years it has been in existence, it has helped thousands of travellers retain independent living, reduced health care costs and provided increased social interaction as well as increasing volunteering opportunities in our area.
The new electric vehicle, delivered by GM Coachworks, is one of three electric minibuses which now forms part of the fleet as the organisation continues to transition to more sustainable ways of serving the community and marks a significant step in NDCT’s commitment to maintaining high standards of service.
The new minibus will provide comfort, reliability and efficiency to passengers and staff as well as helping to improve local air quality.
NDCT chairman James West said: “We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way.
"Now, thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to improve and continue supporting those who need it most.
"This funding is not just about a new vehicle; it’s about improving lives, reducing social isolation, and helping our community become more connected.”
For more information about Nailsea & District Community Transport and the services they provide, visit www.ndct.co.uk .
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The group is hoping to put out regular details of upcoming trips which might catch the eye of anyone feeling a little isolated. If they have spaces, they can also offer a 'taster' trip to people, not already registered to use the services.
Lottery fund bus added to NDCT fleet
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On Friday, January 24, from 10.30am-noon Nailsea & Backwell Disabled Access Café is meeting at 65 High Street. This is the group that has been campaigning for decades for better access to Nailsea & Backwell railway station for those with mobility issues. It is also asking First Bus, as agreed, to set a date to discuss the many problems disabled passengers continue to face when using local buses. And with all the infrastructure improvements currently being made under the BSIP (bus service improvement plan) in North Somerset up-to-date information is sought.
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Please note jammie dodger biscuits are served at the access café along with free tea and/or coffee!
ROAD WORKS: Do you think Bristol Water is having problems finding the leak in the Ridgeway, Nailsea? In December they dug-up outside No2 and were suppose to be back last week to recommence repairs for three days outside No6. Now North Somerset Council has told Nailsea Town Council that for two days from Wednesday, January 15, Ridgeway will be closed to vehicles again outside No6. Alternative routes signposted and the work is listed as 'essential'. Other roadworks are on this page scroll down but or for wider look go to https://n-somerset.gov.uk/my-services/parking-travel-roads/roads-streets/road-closures-temporary-traffic-management/current-future-roadworks
Residents and business people in Nailsea are invited to help shape the future of a transport hub and have their say on walking, wheeling and cycling routes in the town.
A stall is being set up outside Waitrose on Saturday, January 25, from 11am-3pm manned by North Somerset Council officers.
This is the opportunity to discuss potential plans and schemes but after the fiasco of bus lanes confidence isn't high.
Promised routes from the new estates to the town centre and railway station for those walking and/or cycling have yet to materialise and our bus routes need a rethink.
Following previous engagement with local schools and key stakeholders to understand local concerns and aspirations, Nailsea residents will be invited to review initial plans at this drop-in session in the town.
What exactly the initial plans where/are this is a good time to find out.
Officers will also be available to discuss the proposed transport hub for Nailsea, giving the chance for communities to influence the initial concept designs for these important transport facilities.
For communities, transport hubs are intended to offer useful facilities that make it easier and more appealing to travel on foot, by wheel and by bus – providing a connection point between these different forms of transport.
They also offer an attractive focal point for communities, helping to boost town and village centres.
North Somerset Council executive member for highways and transport Hannah Young is the Labour Party councillor for Clevedon South.
She said: “If you live or work in Nailsea, please do come along to our event."
North Somerset Council is working with the community to help make it easier
Transport stall at supermarket
for people to get to school, work, the shops and travel for leisure and iis an exciting opportunity to help directly shape the designs and tailor them to the needs of the community."
Plans for walking, wheeling and cycling, which support the council’s commitment to improve sustainable travel routes, include a range of short, medium and long-term projects (that would require future funding).
The transport hub initiative is UK Government-funded through the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), with funding awarded specifically for this purpose.
On Friday, January 24, North Somerset MP Sadik Al-Hassan came to talk and listen over a cup of coffee and a few chocolate biscuits to people at Nailsea & District Disabled Access Café.
The friendly forum meets at 65 High Street to discuss among other mobility issues getting around in our town and beyond.
The decades old problem of access especially for wheelchair users to Nailsea & Backwell railway station and buses was top of the agenda.
Chairman Alison Morgan reported issues with disallowing wheelchair users on buses, with false claims of needing a scooter permit and driver refusing to connect a ramp to pavement.
Nailsea town councillor Graham Parsons had taken up the cudgels by emailing First Bus and Sadik agreed to step into the affray by asking more questions.
Alison said the cost of installing a lift at the station was now put at £200k while previous estimates were between £4-6 million.
The new bus hub for a one-way Link Road was little more than a glorified bus stop, the meeting heard.
Negotiating a complex benefit system, building regulations for new homes which are often constructed with a flight of steps to the front door, uneven and/or ill maintained pavements and being dependent on taxis were among other issues voiced.
Sadik took away a long list of action points.
The next get together is on Saturday, March 28, 10am-noon, all welcome and jammie dodgers will be served.
North Somerset Council which is thinking of spending £1m of government money on a ‘glorified’ bus stop at Nailsea Link Road came to town the next day.
Council officers manned a stall outside Nailsea Waitrose on Saturday, January 25, to talk about different modes of transport locally but primarily about walking, wheeling and cycling.
It also set out ideas for a one-way Link Road going south from the entrance to Waitrose car park which will effectively make whole stretch of High Street one way too.
The plan is the install a larger shelter for those waiting for the X7, X8 and X9 buses into Bristol.
And there will even be a place for Nailsea people to park their e-bikes!
A consultation is being held in March but the council says if they don’t spend the money on this project they will have to give it back.
The elderly people at Hobbs Court will have to endure an even busier thoroughfare outside their flats if this goes ahead, the council officers were informed.
Transport troubles voiced
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North Somerset Council road safety team is looking at a review of the speed limit along Queens Road in Nailsea. This is bound to be contentious - exactly the same as when the road went from 30mph to 40mph back in the early 1990s we think and police were involved when residents were told they were no longer allowed to park outside their homes. A reduction in the 40mph speed limit on the A370 near the George pub at Backwell is also under consideration
The traffic lights on Queens Road will be there until Friday, March 14, according to North Somerset roadworks map for National Grid to do some 'utility asset works'.
There will be traffic lights on The Perrings and Whiteoak Way for same reason and timeframe.
Details of roadworks including North Drove closed for two/three weeks for National Grid to reinstate road/footpath.
There are diversions in the Greenfield Crescent area as Valley Way Road and Birdcombe Close are closed for drainage maintenance for approximately eight days.
For more information go to https://n-somerset.gov.uk/.../current-future-roadworks
Roadworks update - seeing red
ROADWORKS UPDATE: Does anyone know what is happening at Wraxall Hill? On Friday, February 7, it said it was closed to all traffic and we went the long way round via the division yet late on Saturday evening we were able to drive down the hill? There is nothing on the North Somerset roadworks map yet Friends of Wraxall School Association tells us it is closed for up to three weeks with access at the bottom only to the church car park? FWSA has requested improved signage. The traffic lights on Queens Road, pictured, will be there until Friday, March 14, according to North Somerset roadwork map for National Grid to do some 'utility asset works'. There are traffic lights on The Perrings and Whiteoak Way for same reason and timeframe. And the roadworks in the Greenfield Crescent area including divisions with Valley Way Road and Birdcombe Close closed for drainage maintenance for approximately eight days has begun. Roadworks map link here https://n-somerset.gov.uk/my-services/parking-travel-roads/roads-streets/road-closures-temporary-traffic-management/current-future-roadworks
Access issues in Long Ashton could be a thing of the past under new proposals to address obstructive parking along the main route through the village.
North Somerset Council is considering bringing in new parking restrictions for points along Long Ashton Road and Weston Road. Currently, bottlenecks pose access issues for general traffic, residents, bus services and other public service vehicles, such as emergency services and waste collections.
The locations being considered for new parking restrictions have been identified through feedback from local residents and community representatives, as well as bus operators.
At present, the Clevedon-to-Bristol X7, and Nailsea-to-Bristol X8 and X9 bus services all experience delays through Long Ashton due to obstructive parking.
A public survey on the proposals is now open for six weeks until 5pm on Monday, March 24, and residents can visit www.n-somerset.inconsult.uk/LongAshton to view the proposals in detail and have their say.
If you are unable to access the survey online, please email bsip.engagement@n-somerset.gov.uk or call 01934 888 888 (and say 'Public Transport' when asked) to leave your details to receive a paper copy.
North Somerset Council executive member for highways and transport Hannah Young is the Labour Party ward councillor for Clevedon.
She said: “Parking at certain points along the main road through Long Ashton is posing an ongoing problem for larger vehicles. It restricts access, and causes hold ups which impact everyone’s journeys, including bus passengers.
“Making changes at certain locations would help resolve these issues – improving general traffic flow and allowing a clear route through for service vehicles to serve the community.“
These changes would also help to improve bus service performance,
Parking in Long Ashton
efficiency and cost-effectiveness, giving our communities the reliable services they want and need.”
The proposed Long Ashton parking restrictions are among a range of initiatives being put in place and considered under the UK Government-funded Bus Service Improvement Plan. Read more at: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/bsip
For elderly and passengers with mobility issues go to: https://ndct.co.uk/book-a-trip-or-outing
A new First bus timetable will operate from Sunday, April 6.
In a nutshell for Nailsea the X8 is scrapped replaced by the X7 which will run between Bristol and Clevedon via Nailsea and Backwell.
This will mean no more double-deckers on this route as it will go the railway bridge.
Nailsea people still can’t get a direct bus to The Mall, major hospitals or Bristol airport but luckily The Availables and Nailsea & District Community Transport will hopefully fill in some of the service gaps.
Here are the major route changes for our area:
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X7/X7A: Bristol – Nailsea – Clevedon – The X7 will take on the previous X8 route through east Nailsea and Nailsea and Backwell Station, but will no longer serve Long Ashton. The service will operate as the X7A during evenings and on Sundays. The X7A will serve Long Ashton.
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X8: Bristol – Backwell – Nailsea – This area will now be served by the X7 service.
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X9: Nailsea – Bristol – A revised timetable on all days to improve punctuality and reliability includes minor changes and is coming soon.
More Service changes in the West of England from 6 April 2025 | First Bus
X7 & X7a (Clevedon – Bristol)
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Service X7 will undergo significant changes to provide better connections between the towns and villages of North Somerset, offering a greater possibility for direct journeys between large parts of Clevedon, Tickenham, Nailsea and Nailsea & Backwell railway station. At Clevedon, journeys will serve the Walton Park/Dial Hill area during Monday – Saturday daytimes, replacing the X6 there.
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Between Nailsea and Bristol, the service will operate via Backwell instead of Wraxall, and use the Long Ashton by-pass (instead of running via the village), as per the current X8 route, which it will replace. The service will run hourly initially, and on Sundays and evenings will operate as a modified version of the route, service X7a, that will serve Long Ashton rather than use the Long Ashton by-pass. Existing customers of the X7 for Long Ashton and Wraxall during the daytime on Monday – Saturdays should use the X9 which will remain on its current route.
X1 & X1s (Weston-super-Mare – Bristol)
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The X1 will have a new timetable including extra evening journeys on Monday to Saturday and a new night service will operate on Friday and Saturday nights. This will run as new route X14 (see below) and will connect Bristol and Weston via the Portway, Portishead and Clevedon.
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Two X1 journeys a day will run as an X1s via Long Ashton to provide extra capacity for students attending Backwell School. One journey in the morning will run from Bristol to Weston via Long Ashton, arriving at Backwell Crossroads in time for school opening. In the afternoon, one journey will run from Weston to Bristol via Long Ashton, around school finishing time. This route will be served by the region's first fleet of electric double-decker buses.
Waiting for bus timetables
North Somerset Council executive member for highways and transport Hannah Young is the Labour Party ward councillor for Clevedon.
She said: “Using community feedback is a key part in improving our bus services in North Somerset.
“Following the increased feedback from residents on overcrowding on late buses, we hope that the introduction of late buses on Friday and Saturday nights from Bristol will be popular, and therefore commercially viable services.
“We’re trying to stretch the resources available to match competing demands.
“This does mean that not every person will get the service they would like.
“However, we ask that residents continue to talk to us, and we will continue to make improvements throughout the year.”
“Working closely with bus operators, service changes are put in place every April and September, basing amendments on passenger numbers and community needs as part of North Somerset Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), funded by the Department for Transport. "
ROAD WORKS: The traffic lights on Queens Road will be there until Friday, March 14, according to North Somerset roadwork map for National Grid to do some 'utility asset works'. Horse Race Lane, Failand, will be closed from 9.30am-4pm Thursday, March 13, for up to five days from B3128 to Upper Lodge for essential tree works. There are traffic lights on The Perrings and Whiteoak Way for same reason and timeframe. The on/off closure of Wraxall Hill which was suppose to end on Friday, March 7 overran by several days. Full details of ongoing roadworks in the Greenfield Crescent area including divisions and road closures for drainage maintenance are here www.n-somerset.gov.uk/roadworks
The new bus timetables are now published here https://journeyplanner.travelwest.info/routes.
From Sunday, April 6, the new X7 and X7a Clevedon bus will go through Backwell and because of the railway bridge can only operate as a single decker.
The X8 is no more.
The minor changes to the X9 are in the timetable - download HERE- the route is unchanged.
The villages of Wraxall and Long Ashton will have a less frequent service but people in Nailsea will be able to travel more often via Backwell although there is some concern about children travelling to and from secondary schools.
The new bus timetables are now published here https://journeyplanner.travelwest.info/routes.
North Somerset MP Sadik Al-Hassan said: “I successfully advocated on behalf of constituents working with North Somerset councillor Hannah Young to increase the provision serving Backwell School pupils via the X1s route.”
Hannah is the executive member for highways and transport and the Labour Party ward councillor for Clevedon South.
Sadik added: “While the X8 service is being discontinued, based on valuable feedback, the new X1s service will add a route approximately an hour after normal end of the school day.
“For the morning trip direct to the school, bus capacity has now doubled.
“In addition to this, there is a free late coach facilitated by school that serves as a layer of support.
“The new X1s will be served by the region's first fleet of electric double-decker buses.”
The timetable changes again at the end of August.
To have your say join the online bus forums here:
New bus timetables published
Later this year North Somerset Council has plans to improve Backwell crossroads.
Proposals for a partial closure of Dark Lane have been abandoned after a public consultation.
This part-time closure was hoped to reduce delays for all vehicles travelling on the A370 and Station Road.
However, this change is no longer being proposed under the Bus Service Improvement Scheme following engagement with district and parish councillors and villagers.
Proposals to introduce a Transport Hub on the A370, offering improved waiting spaces, real time information for travellers, cycle parking and more comfortable shelters have also been scrapped.
This would have also included improved parking facilities and pedestrian facilities at Rodney Road.
Again people said NO.
Improvements that are to go forward include:
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upgrades to the traffic signals including GPS technology, offering bus priority over general traffic
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a Weston-super-Mare bound bus lane on Farleigh Road
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improved footways and a new pedestrian crossing near to the leisure centre
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moving the Bristol bound stop to the west side of the crossroads putting place a new shelter and more comfortable seating
North Somerset Council executive member for highways and transport Hannah Young is the Labour Party ward councillor for Clevedon.
She said: “Thank you to everyone who’s taken part in the engagement process for the Backwell crossroads.
"We’ve looked carefully at a number of options over the past year to try to best meet the needs of bus users alongside the local community.
"We’ve listened to elected representatives and residents who would have been most affected by the plans.
“The revised proposals support our plans to maintain and improve bus services in North Somerset and work to achieve a balance between the needs of motorists, those using public transport, taxi’s, cyclists and pedestrians.”
Backwell resident John Tate said: “North Somerset Council look to be resurrecting plans to put bus lanes on Backwell Crossroads.“
These are totally unnecessary and they say after consultations with residents and the parish council.
Backwell crossroad improvements
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“They just ignore consultations as evidenced by Long Ashton bypass, Brockley crossroads and the Wrington turn-off at Congresbury.
“Just because they were granted £48M of Central Government Funding they are obsessed with spending it on these bus lanes nonsense
“Bus lanes are not meant for rural locations where there are only four buses at most an hour but for city centres where there are four buses a minute.
“Brockley crossroads worked better as it was originally as it is a busy link to the airport.
“So what did they do take out a turn right lane from Cleeve to creat a ridiculously short bus lane which is ignored by most buses as they just follow the mainstream of traffic and that in itself tells a story.
“For some reason there they have duplicated the number of traffic lights!
“Backwell crossroads worked better perfectly well now and should be left alone.
“NSC should just return any funds they have left to Central Government and leave Backwell alone and they should do the same for their similar proposals at Churchill crossroads.
“The boss of BSIP at NSC no longer replies to any suggestions I make so if anyone feels strongly about these issues please start protesting to them immediately.”
For updates visit our Bus Service Improvement Plan webpage or email queries to bsip.engagement@n-somerset.gov.uk
High Street closed for Eat:Nailsea
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ROADWORKS: Work is ready to begin on the zebra crossing on Station Road. Traffic lights and road closures in place. PHOTOS: Angela Daynes - thanks. And for those al fresco drinkers Downing’s the High Street bar has its pavement cafe licence so it will be tables out (and umbrellas probably) from Wednesday, April 16, 2025
The bus stop at The George, Backwell, is getting improved this year starting in May.
But nothing in Nailsea as North Somerset Council concentrate on bus stops and shelters on the 6, 7, X1, X4 and X5 routes.
The Link Road will become a bigger, one-way stop but no date yet.
Bus stops in the following locations will be upgraded as part of the programme:
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The George, Backwell
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Clevedon: Old Street, Southern Way and Strode Road
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A370 Puxton to Congresbury
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Congresbury: Weston Road and Bristol Road
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Priory Road, Easton-in-Gordano
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Martcombe Road, Portbury
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Station Road, Sheepway
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Weston-super-Mare: Locking Parklands (Apprentice Way), New Bristol Road, Bideford Road, Milton Road, Baytree Road, Spring Hill Drive, Ebdon Road, Wansborough Road, Bournville Road, Asda, Broadway, Lonsdale Avenue, Windwhistle Circle, Devonshire Road, Canberra Road, Loxton Road, A370, A371, Winterstoke Road, The Boulevard
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Pill: Ham Green, Pill Road, A369
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Portishead: Sheepway, Harbour Road, Station Road, A369, Avon Way, Nore Road, West Hill
The initiative will improve bus travel facilities for both residents and visitors, enhancing the overall public transport experience across the region.
Read more here https://n-somerset.gov.uk/news/bus-stop-enhancements-continue-second-batch-start-next-month
NO NAILSEA BUS HUB – YET
ELECTRIC MANOEVURES: Mid April and caught our first X9 electric bus - very clean and very quiet except for one rattling window. The parking space on lower deck for wheelchairs and pushchairs seemed to be very tight with no room for parent/chair to sit next to child in buggy? Driver said the bus acts like Speedy Gonzales when ignition engaged so important all passengers seated. Twenty-four electric buses are now transporting approximately 20,000 passengers a week mostly on two key services - the X1 (Weston to Bristol) and X4 (Portishead to Bristol). Each bus saves about 75 tonnes of CO2 each year – the equivalent to taking 54 cars off the road. All funded by £12.8million from First Bus and £2.1million in capital funding from the Department for Transport (DfT)
ROAD OPEN: You can drive down Ash Hayes Road but the new zebra crossing on Station Road isn't complete yet, April 24, 2025. Update: It is open May 2025
First Bus representatives called in at the café meeting of Nailsea Disabled Access Group to hear about travelling traumas experienced by passengers especially those who use a wheelchair.
Bus driver trainer Miles Dolphin and Weston depot boss Ilyas Hafezji listened to the confusion caused when drivers can't tell the difference between wheelchairs and powered scooters and failures to get out a ramp when required.
Certain mobility aids do need a permit to travel on public transport, the meeting heard.
And others described the frustration of not being able to reach to zap their payment cards when sat in a wheelchair.
Miles offered to do some training sessions in Nailsea for travellers and staff and talked about sharing good practice and customer service.
It was suggested that staff at 65 High Street could help people to find out how to obtain if necessary, an online permit and 'user approval assessment'.
Nailsea town councillor Graham Parsons called for an awareness campaign and 'bus friendly' stickers for wheelchairs that met the strict weight and size criteria.
Resident David Howard asked for help getting a road sign moved which blocked a footpath on the High Street near the Coates House flats.
He submitted a 'public right of way' report at the beginning of January but had received a reply saying '...unable to locate any obvious obstructions relating to road signs...'.
Café organiser Alison Morgan said she would take the matter up with North Somerset Council and North Somerset MP Sadik Al-Hassan.
Wheelchair access on First Bus
GOOGLE IMAGE HIGH STREET: Can you spot the obvious obstruction?
Using a wheelchair while travelling on public transport can be fraught with difficulties many of which were highlighted to First Bus at the Nailsea & Backwell Disabled Access Café in April.
Café organiser Alison Morgan replayed the travelling traumas experienced by passengers of the group.
There to listen to the issues were bus driver trainer Miles Dolphin and Weston depot boss Ilyas Hafezji.
This led to Miles coming to Nailsea to give advice on how to best use a roadside ramp and ‘park’ a wheelchair onboard one of their buses.
Thanks to this initiative, a few weeks later Miles bought a training bus and trainee drivers to Nailsea where he demonstrated proper techniques for drivers when bus stops aren't perfectly aligned with kerbs, emphasising that ramps should be deployed without passengers having to ask.
Alison was able to practice boarding with her wheelchair multiple times, regaining her confidence to use public transport again.
North Somerset MP Sadik Al-Hassan said: “I have met with the Disabled Access Café several times; they provide a safe space for people to raise accessibility issues and build constructive relationships with businesses and service providers like First Bus—turning problems into solutions through collaboration.
“I am proud to support initiatives that make our community more accessible for everyone!”
Alison said: “The bus crew came to the stop in Trendlewood Way, where I had had such an awful experience back in 2023.
“Miles was horrified that I had been told by a driver to use a different stop and that I had been forced to plead to be able to use the ramp and was told I was a pain.
“He reassured me that this is not how drivers are trained.
“The problem with a lot of bus stops is that our roads are not straight, so it is difficult for drivers to get properly aligned with the raised kerb.
“Miles demonstrated that if this is the case, the driver should pull up just beyond the raised kerb, get out, check that it is safe and lower the ramp accordingly.
“He also stressed that the driver should put the ramp down without the passenger needing to ask.
“My other concern was that my wheelchair would be too big to manoeuvre on and off the bus, and into the designated wheelchair space.
“This was not the case at all and Miles let me practice several times to get my confidence back.
“Steve Ledbrook was able to discuss a problem he had faced travelling on the new electric X1 bus to Weston and again Miles was able to reassure him of an easy solution.
“Evidently, the safety bars on the new buses can swing out to make it easier to manoeuvre in and out of the wheelchair space, again with the drivers help.
“You learn something new every day.
“We then went to the Link Road and met with another member of our group.
“Once again it was necessary for the driver to pull up after the raised kerb and we had a further discussion about the complexities of travelling in a wheelchair.
Parking lessons for people in wheelchairs
“The exercise was immensely helpful and I feel more confident to venture out on the buses again after two years of being reluctant to do so.
''Our aim with the disabled access cafes is to give people a safe space to raise issues and concerns, to help and encourage each other and to establish amicable working relationships with business and managers such as Miles, so we can all learn from each other and resolve any problems.''
The next cafe is 10.30am-noon on Friday morning, May 23, at 65 High Street.
There are more photos and a training video under our transport dropdown menu On The Roads HERE.
NEXT BUS: A revolutionary new bus information board powered by solar to compliment our new electric buses has appeared at a stop called Hillcrest Road, Nailsea. This is actually on Mizzymead Road. Funded by North Somerset Council Bus Service Improvement Plan it says more are being installed in the next months - have you got one at your bus stop? Plans to revamp up to 120 bus shelters on key routes including stops with ‘living roofs’, solar panels and benches made from thousands of recycled CDs as part of its Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), were unveiled by North Somerset Council last month.
TIMETABLE CHANGE: North Somerset Council has changed the X9 timetable by five minutes to fit with Nailsea School timetable. It comes after First Bus and the council reviewed the bus network and introduced changes to services in the region in April. These reviews were based on both passenger usage levels and community needs, the council said, with the aim of ‘reducing the need for continued significant council subsidy of some services and avoid potential future losses’. Both North Somerset Council and First Bus received feedback saying the current bus timetables for the X9 do not align well for students at Nailsea School. In response to this feedback, all morning services have been amended to arrive five minutes earlier to Nailsea School and the afternoon services have been pushed back by five minutes. This extra time will make it easier for students to get to school and access after school clubs. This change will also be implemented through an emergency service change on Sunday, June 1.
UPDATE: Footpath now reopened with no explanation and now another is closed top!
Nailsea People is wondering if the blocked shortcut from The Perrings to Backwell Lake is a case of the barrier being put in the wrong place?
Some residents fear that landowner developer John Garlick is the person responsible as this happened once before eight years ago.
We are told while Mr Garlick doesn't own the actual pathway he does own land to the side of it.
There is lots of speculation on social media for the reasons for this move including fears a planning application could be imminent.
While others think it is a legal manoeuvre to stop the shortcut used by schoolchildren and nature lovers being designated as a public footpath.
Many wonder if Netcott’s Meadow is under threat of development.
Up until June 2017 Netcott’s Meadow was managed by Avon Wildlife Trust.
This arrangement had lasted 30 years.
But then it was sold for £125,000 to Mr Garlick, then of Coombe Grange Farm, and a Peter Priest, of Farleigh Road.
In March 2021 St Werburghs Community News held Mr Garlick responsible for an 11th hour cutting down of the last maple trees on Lower Ashley Road.
And we are told Mr Garlick is also in a land dispute with neighbours in Bucklands End, Nailsea.
Both Nailsea Town Council and North Somerset Council are investigating the footpath closure.
Built as a huge balancing pond when Nailsea grew the important wildlife area at the lake grounds are owned and managed by Wessex Water.
The company which is currently monitoring all day parking by railway commuters on the site says it wasn’t informed of the footpath being blocked.
Shortcut to Backwell Lake blocked
MONDAY, MONDAY: This morning, June 16, at Station Road car park lots of spare spaces while Clevedon Road car park was full to capacity! Wonder what it is like in Silver Street? On the first Saturday of the new charges being introduced for Station Road car park, Nailsea, by North Somerset Council it looks a shoppers 'can't pay, won't pay' protest as there were empty spaces galore however, nearby side roads and especially Silver Street were jammed with vehicles galore
SLOW DOWN: North Somerset Council published a notice of intent back in February this year telling motorists that it was revoking an existing 40mph speed limit on Queens Road, Nailsea, and create a 30mph speed limit. The new road signs are now in place. Queens Road was originally 30mph and there was an outcry especially from residents in the 1990s(?) whose houses fronted the thoroughfare and were being booked for parking outside their own homes...
Essential works to improve the surface of key roads in North Somerset begins in July.
The work, to lay new road surfaces, will be completed in phases and will require some road closures.
The process, known as surface dressing, is carried out on roads in order to prevent deterioration and potholes.
There is a small window of opportunity for this as it only takes a few years for water to enter the road surface and make it crack and degrade.
Once this starts to happen the road will need full resurfacing.
Resurfacing is a very expensive and disruptive process, it also uses valuable resources with a high carbon footprint so the council tries to extend the life of existing road surfaces with preventative measures to improve the condition of more of its roads overall.
The surface dressing process entails spraying the road with bitumen and covering it with stone chippings, after which the road is then rolled, which along with the action of the slow moving traffic, embeds the chippings into the surface. To complete the process, the excess chippings are then swept up and the lining replaced at a later date.
Surface dressing is weather dependent so the dates of the work programme may vary.
Road users are encouraged to visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/roadworks or follow North Somerset Travel and Roads on Facebook for the latest updates.
Signage will also be placed on site to update road users of any disruption to their journey.
The following roads will be surface dressed with road closures in place on the following dates:
Wednesday, July 9
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9.30am-3.30pm B3133 Brinsea Road and Stock Lane, Congresbury. Closure between Venus Street to the roundabout with Langford Lane
Thursday, July 10
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C427 Upper Strode and The Street, Winford
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Lower Strode, Regil
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9.30am-3.30pm closure of Cox’s Green, Wrington
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Mill Lane, Wrington
Friday, July 11
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C659 Puxton Road, Hewish closure between Riverside and Mays Green
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C499 Oldmixon Road, Weston-super-Mare closure between no 105 and Totterdown Business Park
North Somerset Council July roadworks but not in Nailsea
Monday, July 14
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C448 Queensway, Weston-super-Mare closure between Ebdon Road and Lyefield Road
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C444 Lower Norton Lane closure between Queens Way and Crookes Lane
Tuesday, July 15
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C444 Sand Road closure between Lower Norton Lane and the 30mph sign
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C403 Uphill Road South closure between the junctions with the A370
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Weatherly Drive, Portishead
Friday, July 18
B3128 Cuckoo Lane closure between Clevedon Road and Whitehouse Lane
North Somerset Council cabinet member for highways Hannah Young is the Labour Party ward councillor for Clevedon.
She said: :"Surface dressing provides added protection to the carriageway surface as well as enhancing the skid resistance, making it safer to drive on.
“This added protection extends the life of the carriageway surface by up to 10 years, which mean it is an important part of our work to maintain our roads as efficiently as possible, alongside programmes for full resurfacing and pothole repair.
“We appreciate our surface dressing programme will cause some inconvenience but it is an essential process which safe guards the condition of our roads for years to come.”
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A snapshot of the health of North Somerset’s roads and the work being done to maintain them is now open to view in a new report.
The document, which details pothole data, road conditions and useful maintenance information, has been produced so that residents can see how North Somerset Council spends the money it receives on local roads and in order to unlock an extra £500,000 in maintenance funding from the Department of Transport (DfT).
The DfT transparency report details how North Somerset Council ensures value for money from their highway contracts, is working to reduce the council’s carbon footprint and through contractors are investing in the local community with apprenticeships and school visits for budding engineers.
The 18-page document, which can be viewed here offers a range of information and statistics including:
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The condition of A, B, C and U roads in North Somerset
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The number of potholes to be filled in 2025/26 and how that compares with previous years
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The amount spent on proactive and reactive road maintenance
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Case studies explaining how the Council is using new technology and communication methods to aid efficiency
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Community learning and social value initiatives that are being provided through the council’s highway contracts.
North Somerset Council cabinet member for highways Hannah Young is the Labour Party ward councillor for Clevedon South.
She said the report provided an informative summary of the work that had been done during the past five years to maintain the road network and detailed the council’s aspirations for the future.
Hannah said: “We’re absolutely clear that the condition of our roads and pavements is a matter of daily concern to residents and affects every road user.
“I’m pleased to see more money coming from government to tackle this issue and that North Somerset is more efficient than many councils in how we spend these funds."Locally, we have to make choices about the right balance between fixing potholes as they appear and investing in the resurfacing and other preventative measures that will strengthen roads for the future.
Are roads as bad as we think?
“This report provides the opportunity to find out more about how the council does this.
“It also explains how we are reducing our carbon footprint as the challenge of maintaining our roads and pavements increases with the additional damage caused by more extreme weather events.
I’m pleased it also shows that wherever possible we are supporting our local economy by working with local suppliers and contractors who also put back through local projects to support local young people and communities.
“I would like to thank everyone for their efforts in producing such an interesting report.”
Have you walked the footpath between The Perrings and Backwell Lake?
Your memories could make a difference.
Nailsea Town Council (NTC) is working to gather evidence regarding the public’s use of the popular footpath between The Perrings and Backwell Lake. Section 31 of the Highways Act 1980 is headed: Dedication of way as highway presumed after public use for 20 years.
To evidence the public’s long-standing use of this footpath, we urge users to complete a User Evidence Form. If you currently use — or have ever used — this footpath, your input is important. We urge residents and walkers to complete the form with as much detail as possible about how and when they used the footpath.
Important:
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Both the User Evidence Form and the accompanying route map must be completed and signed. Both the form and the map must be signed to count and given to NTC to collate.
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You can download User Evidence Form HERE and map HERE. Because it is a 16-page legal document it has to be completed as a hard copy and together with the map signed. Or you can download both documents from the Nailsea Town Council website: www.nailseatowncouncil.gov.uk
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Printed copies are also available at:
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No. 65 High Street, Nailsea
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NTC Office at The Tithe Barn, Church Road, BS48 4NG
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Time is of the essence.
Your evidence could help preserve access to this much-loved footpath for future generations. Don’t delay — help us gather the evidence to protect its use.
For more information, visit our website www.nailseatowncouncil.gov.uk or contact NTC directly
Call us on: 01275 855277
Email us at: enquiries@nailseatowncouncil.gov.uk
PHOTO:Taken August 2018 called ramp on permissive path
