THE top three traffic concerns in Bradford on Avon are pedestrian safety, air pollution and heavy goods vehiclse passing through the town.

That’s the conclusion of a traffic and transport consultation exercise conducted by the town council.

The feedback has found that more than 750 residents who have responded so far are also concerned about congestion, unsafe roads, and the lack of town amenities.

Cllr Simon McNeill-Ritchie, who chaired the Key Evidence Review Board group which conducted the consultation, was not surprised by the results.

“The message is consistent and certainly reflects other surveys that have taken place over the years.

“But we have had a lot of positive responses back from the 620 whop have so far responded online.”

Around130 people attended three drop-in sessions on January 16, January 31 and February 1.

Alan Hinds, of Mount Pleasant, said: “I think it’s very important to consult the local community.

“I have been interested to see some of the additional statistics they have provided and am pleased to have been asked for our views.”

When the consultation ends in mid-February, the group will present the feedback and an analysis of the results to the town council for a decision.

The group’s aim is to help the town council and residents gain a fuller understanding of transport issues, which include air pollution, congestion, and problems resulting from through traffic.

“We have been asked to provide Wiltshire Council with a strong level of consensus on the outcomes the town wishes to achieve, Cllr McNeill-Ritchie said.

“Improving congestion and traffic flow is not the solution. It is much more complicated than that.”

It appears residents want to reduce the amount of through traffic using the town, and to put in measures to improve pedestrian safety.

Some people called for a second pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, while others want to widen pavements.

Councillors may call for improvements in public transport to alleviate the situation, alongside encouraging more people to walk and cycle.

The biggest issue facing the town is the large amount of through traffic using the town bridge, including HGVs.

This issue could get worse if Bath and North East Somerset Council wins approval for its proposed Clean Air Zone.