THE ‘safe zone’ scheme in Cardigan looks unlikely to return to the town until at least before February.

The controversial scheme closed the high street to traffic and was introduced by Ceredigion County Council during the summer across four towns – Cardigan, New Quay, Aberaeron and Aberystwyth – in a bid to enforce social distancing during the busy holiday period.

Cardigan’s safe zone was dropped in early November but reintroduced following a spike in coronavirus cases in the town. It has since again been removed and now council officials say it is unlikely it will be reintroduced before February at the earliest.

A spokesperson for Ceredigion County Council said: “The key purpose of the safe zones and other measures introduced is to help protect our community’s health by reducing the risk of Covid infections.

“In August temporary traffic orders were introduced so that safe zones in four Ceredigion towns could remain in place for up to 18 months subject to regular reviews so that adjustments can be made.

“The arrangements for Ceredigion safe zones for the New Year are as follows:

“In Aberystwyth, Cardigan and New Quay, the roads previously subject to daily closures will remain open.

“In Aberaeron, the current safe zone arrangements will remain in place.

“Caution must remain and ensure there continues to be appropriate measures in place to safeguard people in our county.

“These adjustments take into account a wide range of information including feedback received, the time of the year and the national lockdown.

“Data will continue to be monitored so that safe zone implementation is kept under review. It is likely that the above changes will be in place until February 1.”

A consultation carried out by the county council into the future of Cardigan’s safe zone has just closed. The scheme has proved unpopular among many traders and also residents affected by the traffic diverted down narrow back streets from the high street.