A CLAIM that proposed traffic calming measures in Hyndburn represent "a terrible mistake" will be discussed by councillors in a public question time session next week..

A full meeting of Hyndburn Council will hear a question from resident Roy Chetham, of Sutton Crescent, Huncoat, who is concerned about traffic calming measures proposed for Burnley Road, Queen's Road and Lonsdale Street.

Mr Chetham has also criticised the way that the council has displayed the plans and accused it of making a token gesture towards proper public consultation.

In a letter to the council, Mr Chetham said: "It is clearly appropriate for action to be taken to improve road safety and coerce drivers into complying with speed limits, but all the kerb build-outs, refuges, islands, odd bits of cycle lane, white lines, hatchings and humps are a terrible mistake.

"Information letters have apparently been issued to all residents but I think the plan on the letter was much too small, so might mean very little to most people.

"The letter invited them to an exhibition at Accrington Town Hall but when I went to see it I could not find anything at first. Upon enquiring, I was referred to a secluded corner of the Tourist Information room, but all it comprised were larger versions of the plans, some comment forms which did not even identify the scheme and a ballot box.

"There was no official person to discuss anything with nor information about a contact point. The whole thing seemed very low-key and customer-unfriendly, merely a token towards proper public consultation. I have seen no other publicity about the proposals, so how are other people supposed to comment if they do not know what is happening?"

Environment services chairman Coun Len Dickinson is expected to respond to Mr Chetham's concerns when the full council meets on Tuesday evening. The meeting, at Accrington Town Hall, is open to the public and begins at 7pm.

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