Pedestrianised high street to re-open to traffic

The council said part of the reason is due to traffic flow problems

A town's pedestrianised road will be partly re-opened to traffic, under a council trial.

Wiltshire Council said allowing motorists to use High Street, in Calne, could "improve air quality and end drivers attempting dangerous passes and mounting kerbs on The Square".

During the 18-month trial, which will cost £100,000, motorists will be able to enter the one-way system heading south from Wood Street to Curzon Street.

Cabinet member for highways Nick Holder said: “We will look at both data and the effect on the local highways network."

The north end of High Street was closed to vehicles in 1968.

Once the trial scheme is in place, drivers will be able to travel down High Street from Wood Street and turn left on to Curzon Street.

Vehicles exiting High Street will be able to turn left only.

Drivers heading west from Wood Street towards The Square will then need to turn right on the mini roundabout along Curzon Street, and then west along the A4.

Initial investigation work is due to start "in the coming weeks".

The scheme is known as an experimental temporary traffic order, meaning after a period of time the council will decide whether to make it permanent or revert the street back to prevent vehicles from using it.

The council will look to tarmac the centre of High Street for vehicles and install temporary physical barriers on each side of the road to help keep pedestrians safe.

Disabled parking currently on High Street will be suspended during the scheme.

During the trial, people can let the council know their views, and these comments will be considered before any decision is made on the future of the scheme.

Mr Nick Holder added the council would listen to the views of local people, before deciding whether to make the scheme permanent.

“We are committed to having well connected communities here in Wiltshire, and we hope that these changes will help to improve both the air quality and traffic flow in Calne," he said.