I would like to comment on the traffic calming matters for Pewsham that were mooted in the Gazette two weeks ago.

A successful scheme, and possibly the only scheme, is the use of speed limits and speed humps as was implemented at Hilperton, near Trowbridge.

In Hilperton it is much quicker to go around the bypass than it is to go along the old road.

The use of chicanes is a complete waste of time, as may be seen in the farcical changes that are taking place in the London Road, Chippenham.

When Pewsham Way was first opened all the traffic disappeared from the London Road until, that is, a 50mph speed limit was put on to Pewsham Way and then all the traffic returned to the London Road.

What is needed is a speed limit on the London Road, such as 20mph, to make the London Road undesirable to use as a rat run.

Traffic calming schemes should be of benefit to the local residents, but whereas it used to be difficult to turn out of Hardens Close towards Calne during the rush hour, now it is well nigh impossible because of a chicane has been placed adjacent to Hardens Close.

To cross the in-coming stream of traffic, one now has to turn to face it; there is no refuge on the far side of the road before encountering the chicane.

To join the out-going stream, one has to exercise more care than before because by the time the out-going stream has reached Hardens Close, it is already on the wrong side of the road and racing towards the chicane.

Either that, or else it is queuing at the chicane and obstructing egress from Hardens Close.

Despite this new chicane, and the traffic lights associated with further works, no-one is being deterred from using the London Road. as I said, a complete waste of time.

Traffic speeds have increased because of vehicles racing to get to the chicane before any gaps close. The situation is farcical.

There has already been one accident here when a car ran into the badly lit bollards on the brow of the hill, which are not reflective and which are difficult to see.

The whole scheme is a chapter of accidents waiting to happen.

Residents in Pewsham must push for speed limits and humps.

The radar-controlled signs which flash "30mph" are nothing but a joke. They are now flashing all the time and are being ignored.

What, may I ask, are the police doing now that they are faced with this blatant evidence of widespread speeding offences?

Perhaps more social benefit would accrue to Chippenham if the police station were to be demolished and replaced with a car park.

GARETH EVANS

Hardens Close, Chippenham