The famously wobbly and vividly coloured road markings along Clevedon’s Georgian seafront have been removed following a costly public outcry. Installed in 2022 along Beach Road, the undulating lines, cycle lane, and one-way traffic system—nicknamed the ‘yellow brick road’—were designed as part of a traffic calming and parking prevention initiative costing over £1 million.
However, local residents and visitors quickly voiced their displeasure, lamenting the loss of sea-facing parking spots and scenic views over the Bristol Channel. The unconventional design sparked widespread criticism, with many calling the markings confusing and impractical.
After considerable community feedback, North Somerset Council decided to revert the area to its former layout. Over a 13-week period and at an additional cost of £500,000, the wavy lines, bidirectional cycle path, and one-way system were removed. The seafront now features restored seascape parking, a single contraflow cycle lane, and a traditional roundabout replacing the previous compact version. The council stated these changes aim to improve pedestrian crossings and overall traffic flow.
READ MORE: Monty Don Opens Up About His “Split Identity” and Gardening Controversies
READ MORE: Dementia Psychologist Highlights Eating Habit Changes as Early Sign of Cognitive Decline
Councillor Hannah Young, Cabinet Member for Highways and local ward representative, said: “We listened closely to the public’s concerns and have reinstated sea-facing parking and adjusted the traffic system accordingly. Our priority was to complete this work before the May school holidays and the summer season, which we have achieved. We thank residents and businesses for their patience and invite everyone to support the seafront area as it adapts to this new configuration.”
The council also plans to add planters around the area and will consult further with the community to determine their placement and other enhancements.
Campaign group founder Cathy Hawkins, of ‘Save Our Seafront,’ condemned the initial scheme as a “disaster” and “a complete waste of money,” citing a total cost of around £2 million. While critical of the current layout, she acknowledged it represents an improvement over the previous design, adding, “It is still one way and it still causes real traffic issues, but it’s better than it was.”