OVERWHELMING support has come out for trialing a one-way system in Bradford on Avon following a traffic survey commissioned by the MP for the town.

Nearly 2000 residents and 265 businesses responded to the survey, with 75 per cent of respondents supporting it along with 90 per cent of respondents saying traffic congestion was the town’s biggest issue.

Moreover 70 per cent of respondents thought this system would have a positive impact on traffic congestion but only 15 per cent were for a bypass as for it to be financially viable an estimated 4,000 homes would need to be built.

“Whenever I speak with businesses, residents or visitors to Bradford on Avon the number one issue that is raised with me is, almost always, traffic,” said Ms Donelan.

"I send out a lot of different surveys but have never received response quite like this. To have so many surveys returned, with so much detail, is quite staggering and shows how big an issue the traffic in Bradford on Avon is.

“There is a clear demand for change; the status quo is not an option for the town. Over 75% of people believe that, if sophisticated modelling shows a benefit, a one way system trial would be a positive step. I absolutely agree with them.

“It is now for the Town Council and Wiltshire Council to work together to use the information I have provided to help put a plan in place to reduce traffic congestion in Bradford on Avon. There must now be investment in some traffic modelling to explore what the most effective option might be."

In regards to a new pedestrian river crossing, 60 per cent of respondents thought it was a good idea and this would also improve pedestrian safety.

Wiltshire Councillor Magnus Macdonald praised Ms Donelan for initiating the survey but also criticised it for a few glaring omissions.

“I was impressed by the volume of responders and the survey itself. This was a very worthwhile process but the next problem how can we pay for it?” said Coun Macdonald.

“I will say though that it would have been good to detail which age groups said what and whereabouts those people are in the town as that may impact their decision.

“But the most important part that was left out was not asking ‘What is their perception of what causes the traffic?’

“I do however think a one-way trial system is a constructive idea and I think we should move forward on a pedestrian bridge too. Clearly a lot of people care about these issues. It is certainly progress.”