I WOULD like to offer the following up-date on the Hilperton Gap issue.

Firstly, the prospective road has been withdrawn from the Wiltshire Local Transport Plan. This means that its construction is not an immediate priority and money earmarked under the plan for roads will not be used.

Secondly, however, the "safeguarded corridor" is still on the District Plan, supported by Trowbridge Town Council, the district and county councils. If extra money from developers can be found the road will go ahead. Less Going for Green, more Going for Tarmac.

As I have previously stated in these columns, public opposition to the road is enormous. The excellent response to the Save Hilperton Gap petition underlines this view. What is needed now is a translation of public opinion into policy, enacted by our elected representatives. Readers may like to take the following action.

1. Attend the planning and conservation meeting of Trowbridge Town Council, 10/12 Fore Street, at 7pm on Tuesday November 7. At a previous meeting (on August 15) this committee emphasised its support for the road, so a strong public showing is vital this time. The Hilperton Gap is on the agenda.

2. Lobby town council members. A list may be obtained from the council office (01225) 765072. Again, this action is essential in advance of a further meeting between Trowbridge Town Council and Hilperton Parish Council on November 15. As the public will not be invited to this meeting our councillors will need to be convinced that their previous enthusiasm for the road project was, after all, misplaced.

The offending road was drawn on the District Plan, it can be rubbed off. The key factor will be the strength of public opinion. Please make your views known.

BOB GLEDHILL,

Middle Lane,

Trowbridge.