Council reveals latest scheme to help social distancing

CARDIFF council has revealed plans to install social distancing measures which include removing parking bays and extending pavements on Merthyr Road in Whitchurch.

It follows a pilot scheme being introduced on Wellfield Road in Roath, where car parking was removed to allow the pavement to be extended.

A letter sent to nearby residents and local businesses said the first phase will see parking suspended in three areas with water-filled barriers and cones separating pedestrians and motorists.

All parking, apart from disabled parking bays and loading bays, will be removed from the Principality to Parsons Bakery, opposite the Post Office and outside the row of shops starting at Damian Harris cycle shop.

The second phase of the scheme will see more robust bolt-down kerbs installed along the edge of the inset bays, which will then be filled with temporary tarmac.

The letter reads: “Cardiff council is putting in place temporary measures to create safer spaces for pedestrians in shopping districts across the city. The aim is to put the measures in place to allow local businesses to trade while ensuring the safety of their customers as we enter a period of recovery.

“The changes being brought in are designed to increase public safety and will help everyone follow social distancing guidelines.”

Work is expected to commence shortly, but the council hasn’t yet provided a date or expected timeline.

The council also plans to implement the scheme on Merthyr Road/Hermon Hill in Tongwynlais, Pontcanna Street in Riverside and High Street in Llandaff.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Following the ongoing pilot scheme on Wellfield Road, Cardiff Council has been liaising with businesses, councillors and residents in four different areas on similar schemes going forwards.

“The aim is to help local businesses trade and provide more space for pedestrians to socially distance.

“More information will be released when the engagement process is completed.”