One-way system bid to ease Whitchurch traffic jams

Discussions are taking place to introduce the scheme in Egerton Road, where traffic conditions have been described as "torturous" at certain times.

The proposal was discussed at Thursday's Whitchurch Town Council meeting, during which councillors backed the scheme in principle.

The meeting heard that before it gets given the final go-ahead, consultation will take place with local residents.

Councillor Gerald Dakin, Shropshire member for Whitchurch, said: "It would be a one-way system between Egerton Road and Worthington Street.

"At certain times it is a nightmare going down that road and difficult going back up again because of people parking on the road.

"I was down there the other day and there were cars parked either side. Some people give way but it can be a torturous route.

"We have looked at it before but nothing came of it, but we will now have a good look at it again. There are a lot more cars now.

"We will not do anything without public consultation. If people are in favour of it we will do it. We won't go against their will.

"I have already been told by some people it would be very much appreciated."

Councillor Dakin said further discussions will take place on the proposal in the next couple of weeks.

"We will be speaking to a few people to see if it's possible, including the traffic engineer," he said.

"There might be funding available from the new housing community infrastructure levy."

Peggy Mullock, who is also a Shropshire councillor for Whitchurch, said they had already spoken to residents in Talbot Crescent about the proposed scheme.

"We went round with a letter and people signed it if they wanted it.

"They voted for it and that's why we are trying to take it forward."

Councillor Mike McDonald, mayor of Whitchurch, said: "I suggest in principle we are in favour of it subject to proper consultation."

The meeting also heard about the possibility of creating parking permits for residents in the town.

Meanwhile, councillors also discussed IT and wi-fi provision in Whitchurch Civic Centre as well as issues surrounding bar finances in the venue.

Three items, all proposed by Councillor John Sinnott, included asking councillors to review how items for council and committee meetings are placed on to the agenda.