I’m baffled why anyone in Bradford on Avon is opposed to the plans for the Historic Core Zone.

As a working mum with a toddler in tow, I can’t remember the last time I wandered down into the town centre and felt safe.

I hate the stressed out energy that the frustrated cars and lorries who slowly rumble through town give off, as they huff and puff at the various pinch points and resentment you can see etched on most driver’s faces for having to even drive through Bradford on Avon.

It doesn’t really make for a pleasant stroll. But people will continue to drive, so we have to find a solution to redress the balance and make the whole experience of entering into the town centre enjoyable.

Solution: the Historic Core Zone. As someone who has been aware of the incredible amount of hard work that has been put into this project – not only by community members, the Preservation Trust, Prince’s Trust, volunteers etc – this brilliant idea wasn’t just dreamt up overnight.

The Historic Core Zone’s design concept has been achieved through years or hard work, a great deal of thought, consultation, blood, sweat and tears. To not give it a chance would be a disaster.

To enjoy a town centre where you can safely walk around and where the pedestrian will have priority over the cars; where there are wider pavements; 25 crossing points (opposed to just two zebras); a calmer space enhancing the beauty of the town: I can’t see why anyone would think it isn’t the best idea since sliced bread.

I love living here and I really want to see the town flourish and evolve for the better; not only for my family to enjoy and feel safe in today, but to be able to know that, when my son is older, he will be reaping the benefits of voting yes for the zone and the positive effect it will have on his town’s future. For this not to happen really doesn’t bear thinking about.

Bradford on Avon is a Working Historic Town, that is in desperate need of a Historic Core Zone. I really hope busy families can somehow make the time to nip out and vote Yes on February 5.

Let’s make history.

Liz Brewer, Creating Mischief, Bradford on Avon.