The Saturday Street Test

Alderwick closed its narrow High Street to cars last Saturday, turning the trial into a townwide experiment. Shopkeepers expected a rush, but the first hour brought more prams, dogs, and unhurried conversations. Delivery vans were redirected through the industrial estate, adding several minutes to each morning route. However, a grocer said customers stayed longer because they no longer had to dodge reversing vehicles. The busiest stall sold no food, but sharpened kitchen knives beside a portable workbench. Its owner, who usually works behind closed doors, finished more repairs than expected. Some residents complained that the detour inconvenienced older shoppers who relied on direct car access. Organizers responded by reserving two brief unloading periods, although traffic returned briefly during both windows. By afternoon, measured sales had risen only slightly, while conversations and repair bookings increased sharply. The council will repeat the closure next month if revised delivery routes can be agreed before then.