RESIDENTS on the Forest estate, Melksham are being given a second chance to offer their views on a controversial traffic-calming scheme.

Hundreds of residents living off Forest Road were left out of the consultation process last year and only 20 people turned up to an open day where traffic calming measures were chosen.

A mixture of speed tables and raised junctions were selected, with the introduction of a 20mph zone.

But scores of leaflets have been distributed to homes off Forest Road to allow everyone a chance to air their views.

Town councillors representing the Forest ward blasted the process and said people were being denied the chance to execute local democracy.

Cllr Vic Oakman said the likely combination of speed humps and raised junctions would be a haven for skateboarding youths who would turn the road into a play-park.

But he added: "If the majority of people turn round and say they like the scheme at least it will be a democratic process."

Three options are being offered to residents; speed tables and raised junctions, speed cushions and chicanes and pinch points.

County council traffic services manager, Andrew Wyatt, said the project would be shelved if major changes were voted for. Forms have to be returned to the county council by September 6. Diagrams are available for viewing at Melksham town hall and the regulatory committee will discuss the project.