Feedback sought on Bridge Street and Albert Street traffic management

Sustrans is carrying out a community engagement exercise on behalf of Orkney Islands Council around the traffic management of part of Kirkwall’s main throughfare.

A request to the Council to consider closing Bridge Street on Friday and Saturday nights to vehicles (other than emergency) - due to the opening of a new late-night business – was noted by Councillors on 10 September and it was agreed to ask the public and Kirkwall BID for feedback on the potential for driving restrictions on these two streets. 

As a result, Sustrans – the charity making it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle – have launched the project ‘Streets for Everyone’ seeking local input with the aim of creating safer, more accessible and vibrant public spaces that benefit everyone. 

The goal is to balance the needs of all users, from pedestrians and cyclists to residents, business and delivery services, while maintaining the area's unique character. To do this, Sustrans need input on how potential changes, such as car prohibition at certain times, could affect residents, businesses and the local community.  

From 24-28 October, the Sustrans Engagement Team will be visiting local shops and speaking with residents and folk on the street to gather the views of those on any proposed changes and how any additional closures could benefit or impact their daily operations. 

There will also be an opportunity to share your views online https://streetsforeveryone.commonplace.is/ 

The results will be presented to a future committee meeting of elected members. Should proposed changes to vehicle restrictions take a step forward, then the Council would be required to carry out statutory and public consultations. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What are the current restrictions on vehicles?  

The current situation is that vehicles should only be using Bridge Street and Albert Street for the purpose of access.  In addition, only vehicles with Blue Badge holders should be driving in Albert Street between the hours of 11 and 3.  However, it is accepted that this situation is confusing and difficult to manage, therefore we are looking at what alternative arrangements might be possible which would be easier to understand. 

Why are changes being proposed? 

The possibility of further vehicle restrictions on Albert Street and Bridge Street could create safer, more welcoming spaces for pedestrians. Reducing traffic helps improve safety, air quality, and the overall experience for people walking, shopping, and exploring Kirkwall. At a meeting on 10 September 2024, Councillors agreed to begin the process of exploring what these changes could look like and what would work for residents, visitors and businesses. 

Will businesses still be accessible if additional restrictions are put in place? 

Yes, businesses would remain open and fully accessible. Any changes would look to make it easier for people to explore and spend time in the town centre, benefiting local shops and cafes, whilst still ensuring that businesses are able to maintain their activities. 

What about deliveries to businesses? 

Kirkwall BID and businesses would be supported to accommodate deliveries by, for example, making arrangements for delivery times which would accommodate any periods of driving restrictions. 

How would this impact on Blue Badge holders? 

Blue Badge Holders would be supported, and arrangements would be made for appropriate access as required. A key part of this engagement exercise is to understand the needs and concerns of the disabled community and ensure that these are recognised and accommodated. 

What happens next? 

The outcome of the Sustrans engagement will be presented to a future committee meeting of elected members. 

If a decision is taken to look at further traffic restrictions on Albert Street and Bridge Street then statutory and public consultations will take place.