CITY leaders have been asked to make a U-turn on their decision to reopen a busy Southampton road.

Campaigners have asked city councillor to leave Bedford Place closed to traffic.

It comes as the road was reopened earlier this week following calls from local businesses.

More than 1,500 people signed a petition which was presented to full council at Southampton City Council this afternoon.

Presenting the petition on behalf of Southampton Street Space, Lyn Brayshaw said: “Bedford Place was a Conservative government funded scheme. We must take all the steps we possibly can. We are in a climate emergency. To make active travel the new normal we need to be bold. It is Covid that damaged businesses.”

Cllr Moulton said the decision to reopen the road was taken after 57% of  local businesses said to be against the road closure.

He said the scheme was temporary and put in place to support businesses during the pandemic.

He added: “We took the view that it would be inappropriate to continue a road closure against the wishes of the majority of businesses.”

But hitting back, opposition councillor John Savage said: “This decision is not evidence-based, it is absolutely political. This is pre-determined.”

Bargate councillor Sarah Bogle said her group canvassed about 1,000 local residents and 2/3 of them were in favour of the road closure in Bedford Place.

She added: “These residents were upset that their voices were not heard enough. Young people were more in favour. Where is their voice in this debate?”

Council leader councillor Daniel Fitzhenry said there will be a “proper consultation” with businesses, residents and the wider community on long-term plans to improve public realm in Bedford Place.

It comes as councillors have pledged to invest £150,000 in the area.

Addressing concers over the impact the reopening of the road to traffic would have on climate change, Cllr Fitzhery added: “We will be delivering action every year and every day so that we can drive this city to be in the front run of the carbon agenda.”

As previously reported, last month civic chiefs confirmed they will consider evening only road closures on Bedford Place in the future as they plan a £150,000 makeover for the area.