Cheddar Gorge For Everyone

Aerial image of Cheddar Gorge showing limestone

Cheddar Gorge Experimental Traffic Regulation Order

Between 31st January and 12th March the Mendip Hills National Landscape Team ran a consultation about using an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order to create a traffic free environment in Cheddar Gorge. 

Please click on the link here to read the full report on the consultation findings ETRO Cheddar Gorge Consultation Report (1.8mb)

Or click on this link to see the ‘easy read’ version of the consultation report Cheddar Gorge for Everyone easy read version. 

It will take us some months to work through the next steps as we consider the feedback in further detail, liaise with relevant authorities and partners, and put together the formal application to the Highway Authority. We look forward to sharing further updates later in the year.

We want to create an experience that is fitting for a naturally beautiful and significant visitor attraction like Cheddar Gorge.

Our Proposal 

We propose to use this order to temporarily close Cheddar Gorge to vehicular traffic, just once a month. This would allow walkers, cyclists and other visitors the chance to enjoy the Gorge more safely and enhance their visitor experience.

The proposal builds on work carried out by Sedgemoor District Council. For Cheddar an accessibility strategy was prepared setting out a range of short and longer term projects aimed at delivering sustainable transport improvements and enhanced accessibility. Please click on the links below.

The experimental order is just that: it’s intended to test an approach to understand how it could address the feedback received during previous discussions.

When the order is in place, Cliff Road (B3135) would be closed to vehicles from above the formal car parks to the Black Rock car park (see map below). This would allow visitors to enjoy the Gorge on foot, or by bicycle, more safely.

It would offer opportunity for meet-ups, activities and events to be held in the Gorge and chance for everyone to enjoy one Britain’s most spectacular natural landmarks.

Businesses throughout Cheddar remain open as usual during this time, as will the car parks at either end of the Gorge.

Map showing the proposed traffic free area once a month.

Map of Cheddar Gorge showing proposed traffic free area.

Image copyright Google Map

More details on the Cheddar Gorge Experimental Traffic Regulation Order 

  • When is the deadline for feedback?

The consultation period ran from 30th January to 12th March 2024 and we are now in the process of reviewing the feedback. Further updates will be shared on our website.

  • When will you share details of the closure dates?

It will take us some months to work through the next steps as we consider the feedback in further detail, liaise with relevant authorities and partners, and put together the formal application process. We look forward to sharing further updates later in the year.

  • What is an experimental traffic regulation order (ETRO)?

An experimental traffic regulation order is a temporary measure used to help us to understand the impact of a proposed traffic regulation. It allows for the testing of changes to traffic flow, parking restrictions, or other related regulations on a trial basis. It can remain in effect for up to 18 months before a decision must be made on whether it is to be made permanent.

  • Why are you introducing an experimental traffic regulation order?

We are proposing to open the Gorge to visitors by closing the road through the gorge road once a month to understand how it could be used by pedestrians, cyclists and other users when vehicle restrictions are in place. After experiencing and evaluating what opening the Gorge in this way may bring, we will consider the frequency of the events.

  • Why aren’t the closures going to be more frequent?

During this experimental phase, the road will be closed once a month to collect data and opinions, informing the decision on whether to increase the frequency in the future.

  • Why is the length of the closure set where it is?

During our initial conversations with stakeholders, some businesses and organisations expressed concerns about the regulation impacting local businesses and car parking. Our proposed approach reflects these comments.

  • Who is funding the ETRO?

The ETRO project has been proposed and is being organised and funded by Mendip Hills National Landscapes (formerly known as the Mendip Hills AONB).

  • Will there be more provision of public transport?

We hope the ETRO will trigger much needed discussions about visitor traffic to this nationally important destination.

  • How will the closures be enforced?

Non-permanent bollards and signage, staffed for the first few closures, will be in place informing people . As an ETRO is a legal highway closure, they can be enforced by the Police.

  • Why is the diversion so long?

The diversion route takes motorists along the A371, A39 and B3135. When closing a road, the official diversion must be along a road of the same or higher class, which dictated the route we have signposted. There are alternative roads in the area which may offer shorter journey times.

  • Where can I share my views?

The consultation period has now closed, but if you would like to share any comments at this stage you can contact CheddarGorge@distinctivecomms.co.uk.