CALLS for a comprehensive traffic plan for Richmond were made as town councillors rejected part of a county council proposal.

While members welcomed a 20mph speed limit for the town centre, there were concerns over how it would be enforced.

The special meeting on Wednesday opposed plans for speed humps, which it was felt would increase congestion, particularly in winter when gritting was not guaranteed.

Gateway arrangements, intended to slow down traffic, were also rejected because the design was out of keeping with the town.

Coun Stuart Parsons, the mayor, said: "The proposed gateways are supposed to let people know that they are entering into a special area, so why are they so ugly, unimaginative and unattractive?"

There was concern that a complete traffic management plan for Richmond had not yet been drawn up. Members agreed the proposed changes could not be discussed fully until all the different schemes were mapped out together.

Clarification was also sought on how the 20mph limit would be enforced, as members felt the current 30 and 40mph zones were not enforced.

Some of the proposals could also adversely affect businesses and the plans for Quaker's Lane recognised the "rat run" problem but failed to do anything to alleviate them.

Some members were also concerned about increased pollution, particularly in Victoria Road, which, along with Cravengate, was designated a "priority movement" area.

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