Low-traffic schemes

SIR – I was pleased to read that the Government has finally moved to make local councils ensure they have the support of residents before implementing low-traffic neighbourhoods (report, March 17).

We are about to have a low-traffic scheme imposed on our already quiet area of Bristol. Rather insultingly, it is referred to by the council as a “liveable neighbourhood” scheme, as though the place where we have chosen to make our home is not perfectly liveable already.

We have just received the results of the “consultation” that was carried out earlier this year. Apparently (and perhaps unsurprisingly), a large majority of the respondents are not in favour of the plan because it will affect our ability to access vital routes in and out of the city.

A councillor told me last week that the council is pushing forward with the scheme on a trial basis because the consultation was designed to let residents raise their concerns and allow the council to answer them. It was “in no way a referendum”.

I think the Government (and our community) may have a battle on its hands.

Simon Armstrong

Bristol

SIR – Am I alone in seeing a disconnect between pervasive traffic restrictions and the desire of the Government to see economic growth? If people can’t get around, they can’t be as productive. It is not simply about ambulances, but also about the economy.

It may be thought that restrictions just affect the better off – stuck frustratingly in their cars. But it is especially those who are dependent who suffer. The support they need is less available.

Chris Jolly

Chigwell, Essex