MP Rupert Lowe Criticizes Market Gates Bus Lane Changes in Yarmouth

The £2m redevelopment of the bus lanes around Market Gates in Great Yarmouth has caused controversy, especially with the closure of a central taxi rank. The project, approved by Great Yarmouth Borough Council, is aimed at improving the town’s road system but has sparked concerns from local businesses and taxi drivers.

MP's Concerns

Rupert Lowe, the MP for Great Yarmouth, has voiced strong objections to the changes, arguing that the roadworks are discouraging visitors from the town center. He stated:

"I have been contacted by a number of concerned business owners and taxi drivers regarding the updates taking place under Market Gates. Completely shutting down this central bus and taxi hub and re-routing buses into unfamiliar areas of the town is putting people off coming into the Town Centre."

Lowe further emphasized that businesses, including some big high street names, are worried about surviving the ongoing construction, which will last until May.

The Impact on Local Businesses

The closure of the taxi rank outside the Troll Cart pub has raised particular concerns. Taxi drivers have expressed frustration over the disruption, with the rank closed during the works and again between 11 pm and 5 am daily once completed. Lowe continued:

"Retail businesses, including some big high street names, have shared concerns of whether they can survive with works due to carry on through to May."

Council's Perspective

Norfolk County Council maintains that the changes will improve bus services and benefit the town economically. A spokesman from the council stated that the new bus lane on Temple Road will speed up bus journeys and improve the overall transport system.

Alternative Arrangements for Taxi Ranks

To mitigate the impact on taxi drivers, alternative ranks will be created on Market Gates Road, and the Theatre Plain rank will be expanded to hold 12 cars. Despite these provisions, taxi drivers and councillors argue that the changes were implemented without sufficient consultation.