Shortly before Christmas, Waverley Borough and Godalming Town Council leader Paul Follows confirmed investigations into a permanent solution were in the planning
A fresh attempt to pedestrianise Godalming High Street is in the pipeline. The street has had an automatic bollard with traffic restrictions on Saturdays for some years, which enabled a limited pedestrianisation.
It was also closed to traffic during lockdown. However, there have been technical issues and residents have been asking when a long-term fix will be found as deliveries are delayed and residents unable to easily access their homes.
Shortly before Christmas, Waverley Borough and Godalming Town Council leader Paul Follows confirmed investigations into a permanent solution were in the planning.
Calling the bollard ‘infuriating and pointless’, he told residents in a Facebook group a solution that still allowed access for deliveries and people who lived there was being sought, promising more information in the new year.
Cllr Penny Rivers said that while pedestrianisation could be ‘full of challenges’, there were plenty of benefits. She added: There have been frequent technical issues with the bollard and Godalming Town Council will be seeking a more sustainable answer for the town centre.
At that time, proposals will be subjected to full consultation by Godalming with Surrey County Council having the final say, she said.
We are fully aware that there are difficulties caused by just-in-time deliveries to our shops and businesses, and also we are mindful of those who are less mobile. Implementing pedestrianisation is full of challenges but delivers many opportunities and benefits, she said.
John Taylor, president of Godalming & District Chamber of Commerce, said opinion on closing the route to traffic was divided.
The chamber has very strong views on it; 50% would like it and 50% don’t want it – that is the problem, he said.
He said: We have had meetings with the town council and had Waverley (borough council) involved, and the conclusion was it’s 50:50.
