A COLLISION involving a young boy and a car in Cricklade Street has amplified concerns about the increased number of cars in the semi-pedestrianised area.

The street is closed to vehicles, with exceptions for loading and blue badge holders, from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday, but there has been an obvious increase in vehicles flouting the order since the Market Place scheme meant town centre road systems were re-adjusted.

Residents say the street has become a lot more hazardous for pedestrians in recent weeks.

Many blame the new road layout, which saw Castle Street converted into a one-way road.

Others say signage for drivers needs to be improved but there are many who are aware of the order and choose not to obey it.

It is understandable that police cannot be on site 24/7 to enforce the order and it may not yet be possible as traffic regulations have not been updated.

However, the authorities do need to get their heads together on this one quickly to prevent a more serious incident.