**Holiday Traffic Relief: Norwich's Smart Roadwork Strategy for Christmas**
In a strategic move to ensure smoother traffic flow during the busy holiday season, Norfolk County Council has announced a pause on non-essential roadworks in Norwich leading up to Christmas. Only emergency works by utility companies will be allowed in this critical period, a decision that has been positively received by local business leaders.
Rob Bradley, the manager of Castle Quarter shopping centre, welcomed the news, noting that traffic has been particularly heavy recently, which could deter shoppers. He expressed the sentiment that if roadwork disruptions continued, it would discourage people from visiting the city. Similarly, Jo Bates, manager of Chantry Place, echoed this sentiment, stating that retailers would greatly appreciate the pause in construction.
The council’s preemptive planning aims to prevent congestion that can arise from the ongoing roadwork, especially considering the extensive delays caused by projects such as the upgrades at the A11 Thickthorn junction. Temporary traffic lights at critical junctions have also been removed as part of the effort to ease flow into the city.
Graham Plant, the Conservative councillor overseeing road-related planning, emphasized the importance of this decision in light of recent traffic issues that have caused prolonged waiting times for motorists.
Critics like Brian Watkins from the Liberal Democrat party noted that the road network had been suffering from significant delays, making this pause crucial for maintaining accessibility during the festive rush. Steve Morphew from the Labour party described the decision as a “no-brainer,” indicating that better planning of roadworks is feasible. The council also plans to encourage public transport as a means to mitigate congestion further.
As the festive period approaches, the focus on maintaining traffic flow reflects a broader strategy to enhance the city’s appeal, making it easier for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the holiday atmosphere.