Corsham traffic trial proves unpopular (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Corsham traffic trial proves unpopular

7:00pm Friday 20th July 2012 in News By Mike Wilkinson, Senior Reporter

A TRAFFIC calming trial at Corsham’s South Place has proved unpopular with motorists, a study of the two-week project has shown.

The road adjacent to the Methuen Arms pub was reduced to one lane with a priority system to see if it made the stretch safer.

The scheme resulted in pedestrians feeling safer when walking along the pavement, but frustrated motorists who had to give way to oncoming vehicles.

Corsham town councillors announced last week on Monday that they would now explore other measures with Wiltshire Council.

Free parking passes for the High Street car park could be issued to parents who add to congestion along Lacock Road and Pound Pill as they drop children at school.

A new footpath could also be created from the High Street car park, skirting around the Methuen Arms and joining The Avenue, exiting through the kissing gate at the top of Pound Pill.

But one town councillor is looking to a radical traffic calming scheme in London for inspiration.

Coun Nicholas Keyworth said: “The proposals offer unimaginative and unworkable solutions. Currently the road is dominated by traffic which squeezes through the narrow street, sidelining and intimidating pedestrians.

“All over Europe we see much bolder approaches to creating shared spaces in our town centres where they are predominantly people spaces into which vehicles are invited to pass through with care and consideration.

“Exhibition Road in London is just one example where pavements have been removed and an attractive new environment has transformed what was just another road into a pleasant, safe and accessible space for all.

“The whole road from the Mansion House to the Almshouses should be treated like this.”

Coun Pete Anstey, chair of the town council, said: “The trial made us more aware of people’s driving habits. There was a some frustration from people who were delayed by just a moment or two. Now we are looking for a way forward from the trial.”

Corsham town councillors are working with Wiltshire Council to analyse the findings.