Denmark Street transport proposals given the greenlight
Plans to close part of Denmark Street were given the greenlight following a unanimous vote during yesterday’s (Thursday, 5 February) Transport and Connectivity Committee meeting.
Proposals to transform the Denmark Street area, home to iconic institutions such as the Bristol Hippodrome and O2, were first presented to the committee in November. Plans included permanently closing the section from 11 Denmark Street to its junction with St Augustine’s Parade to through traffic, along with a package of traffic-calming and road safety measures, including tactile paving, raised crossing points and speed cushions along Frogmore Street.
Public realm improvements, such as more seating and decorative planters, were also included as part of the proposals.
Following the publication of the proposal’s designs, a public consultation was held from August to October 2025, giving residents the opportunity to share their views. Following feedback from the consultation, proposals were refined to better reflect the views of the local community. Changes included:
- Not progressing with proposals to close Denmark Avenue to motor vehicles
- Marking out dedicated e‑scooter and e‑bike parking behind The Hatchet Inn
- Reviewing street lighting and CCTV in the area to address safety concerns
It’s great to see our plans for Denmark Street given the go-ahead today. This area of the city centre is an immensely valuable cultural hub, home to some of the city’s most iconic and well-loved institutions. By prioritising people over vehicles, we can ensure it remains a vibrant and welcoming destination to all.
Councillor Ed Plowden, Chair of the Transport and Connectivity Committee
Throughout this process, we have worked closely with partners, local organisations and accessibility groups, including our friends at WECIL, and listened carefully to the feedback shared through our public consultation. Following this, we have taken public concerns seriously and are now finalising the designs to better reflect the needs of the community.
I would also like to thank everyone who took the time to share their views on this scheme. Your feedback has been instrumental in shaping our updated proposals, helping to ensure they have the backing of the city.
A Full Business Case will now be submitted to secure UK government funding from the City Region Strategic Transport Settlement, which is managed by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.
