A ONE way traffic system to control congestion in Warminster town centre which has been discussed several times in the past has been deemed not viable by councillors.

The idea of introducing the clockwise one way system for Station Road, Fairfield Road, Imber Road and East Street has been brought up by councillors in various meetings a number of times previously, and there are still advocates in the town for it go ahead.

However after long discussions were held between the traffic system working group, which was set up in September last year to explore the need, effectiveness, viability and cost of introducing one way traffic systems in parts of the town centre which often become congested, the system was deemed not viable due to the traffic congestion it would create in other parts of the town which would be a nuisance to residents.

Warminster town clerk, Fiona Fox said: “The working group consisted of four councillors from the Town Development Committee with advisers from Wiltshire Council, and this idea has been mooted on more than one occasion.

“Following lengthy discussions it was agreed unanimously that the potential problems a one way system would create would be greater than any benefits it may provide for town centre traffic.

“In particular there would be inevitable displacement of traffic to vulnerable areas of the town, such as Plants Green and Gipsy Lane, from residents living in the vicinity who wished to travel east.

“Having decided that it would not be viable because of the number of problems it would create, the working group has now been wound up.”