I LOVE living in the town of Cirencester.

Since I moved here 30 years ago I enjoy socialising with local people, rejoice in the lively welcoming churches, appreciate the leisure facilities, work with the excellent schools and take pleasure in the wide range of businesses.

The work to improve the environment of the Market Place seemed a positive statement in developing the ambience for local people and encouraging more visitors to the town.

It has been a hard journey as businesses have suffered a drop in trade and pedestrians have experienced inconvenience as they endeavour to move around the centre of the town but I believed it was all going to be worth it in the end.

Unfortunately, yesterday I had an unpleasant experience and afterwards I learnt that everything is not going to be so easy for pedestrians in the future.

A blind friend, with her guide dog, was struggling to cross the roads at the southern end of the Market Place.

A kind gentleman was endeavouring to assist her around the various vehicles that were parked alongside the pavements.

When she finally reached the opposite pavement, by the mobile phone shop, we stopped to pass the time of day. 

A motorist drove around the corner and parked his car across the path of the old traffic lights alongside the pavement.

When I suggested that he was obstructing the crossing for pedestrians I was told with very strong, unpleasant language that as the lights were no longer in force he had every right to park there.

Afterwards I discussed the plans for the Market Place with others and was told that there would be no designated crossing controlled by lights in the future.

That we, parents with young children, elderly adults, visually and hearing impaired people will all have the challenge of crossing the busy roads without any lights or sound to ease their way.

Is that what we want for our inclusive, friendly, caring, active town?

ALISON LOCK
Cirencester