Published: March 27, 2007
Burnham town councillors rally round to help firms hit by bridge closure

Concerned town councillors have this week called for parking charges in Highbridge to be abolished and tax relief to be given to shops in a bid to help those businesses that have been hit by the long-term closure of the busy Walrow railway bridge.

At a meeting on Monday night (March 26th), town councillors reacted angrily to the news which was reported exclusively by Burnham-On-Sea.com earlier this month that the previously busy bridge (pictured) would close for between 3-4 years while Network Rail carries out strengthening work.

"Businesses in Highbridge should definitely be able to apply for non domestic rates relief due to this disruption," said Cllr Louise Parkin, who is Chairman of the Town Improvements Committee. "It's a ridiculous situation."

And Cllr Chris Williams added: "Sedgemoor District Council should temporarily abandon parking charges in Bank Street to help those firms affected."

"Market Street is now a no-through road. Many businesses rely on passing through-trade, so they will quickly be struggling."

"We need to get hold of Sedgemoor's ankles and not let go. Anything that can be done to help Highbridge companies must be done."

Town clerk Eileen Shaw said she had been speaking to Somerset County Council in recent days and was also pressing for help.

"I have been assured by Somerset County Council's Highways Department that new signs stating Market Street is open for business will be in place over the next few days," she told Monday's meeting.

We reported last week how Burnham and Highbridge's MP, David Heathcoat-Amory, is also pressing Network Rail to bring forward the completion date.