Future of Bridport's Torchlight Procession still in the dark
National Highways say they no longer want Bridport's torchlight procession to cross the A35
National Highways say safety concerns and complaints from motorists are the reasons why they no longer want Bridport’s torchlight procession to cross the A35.
The event which involves around 1,500 people is part of Bridport Carnival.
Contractors have provided traffic management at the Crown Roundabout but now National Highways want organisers to come up with another route.
They say discussions about next year's event haven’t yet taken place due to the pandemic.
Stephen Potts, South West Service Manager for National Highways, told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset:
“For a number of years, our contractors have provided traffic management at Crown Roundabout to allow the procession to cross the A35. However, due to several factors, including safety concerns and complaints from motorists wishing to use the A35, an alternative route was planned for discussion.
“Unfortunately, due to Coronavirus, those conversations are yet to take place, but we and our police partners welcome the opportunity to discuss an alternative route with organisers and the town council, one that does not involve the closure of the A35, so that next year’s procession can go ahead safely and conveniently.”
Yesterday we reported how West Dorset MP Chris Loder was calling for answers about why the event can’t continue as it is.
He said:
Chris Mr Loder said:
“The Bridport Carnival and Torchlight procession are some of the most iconic and memorable events that Bridport has offered for over half a century and is what helps make the town so unique. This is so important for the local economy that losing it would be a considerable hit to Bridport”
Mr Loder continued: “I will continue pressing National Highways not just for a full explanation on their recent announcement but will also be doing all I can to ensure the Torchlight and Carnival can continue”.