Controversial social distancing measures to remain 'for now' in Wiltshire

In June, streets in Devizes were used to test ‘pavement distancing’ measures as lockdown lifts and more shops open.

Devizes was picked as a trial run for the scheme, with an area running around from the Market Square around the HSBC corner being widened with the use of crowd barriers, signs and road posts.

The measures, on Wine Street and St John’s Street had been put in place by Wiltshire Council, which was set to receive £227,000 of government funding to support creating a safe environment for walking and cycling.

Now, in 2021, red plastic barriers and sandbags still line St John’s Street - leading to calls for their removal from local residents who feel they negatively impact the town centre.

The barriers have been described as an “eyesore” by those wishing for their removal.

The Trust for Devizes Group, which seeks to protects he history of the town centre for future generations, has called for the barriers to be scrapped or replaced with something more "appropriate for a Conservation Area."

Safe distance measures laid out in Devizes Safe distance measures laid out St Johns’s St on junction Wine St Photo Trevor Porter 66917 1

When contacted, Wiltshire Council confirmed that due to the rising number of coronavirus cases in the region, social distancing schemes across the county would likely remain “for now.”

Cllr Bridget Wayman, Cabinet Member for Highways for Wiltshire Council, said: “This scheme was implemented to ensure pedestrians can observe social distancing in line with public health guidance.

“Social distancing guidance remains the same and as cases are increasing in Wiltshire, it’s important these arrangements stay in place for now.

“We do however continue to review the need for all temporary schemes, and remove them as soon as they are no longer required.”