WITH reference to the recent letter (October 16), and subsequent article about traffic calming proposals in Aintree Road, Little Lever, may I provide the comment requested.

Mr Dicker is not speaking on behalf of all residents when he suggests the proposed traffic calming arrangements were not wanted. It was in response to concerns expressed regarding the temporary use of Aintree Road and Redcar Road as a diversion route during the forthcoming resurfacing work to Church Street that a scheme was drawn up for implementation of traffic calming. Residents were informed of these proposals, but a formal objection was received which has prevented the work being undertaken at this time.

Contrary to what was said in the letter, the proposed humps are three inches high, comply with national standards for "bus-friendly", flat-topped humps and, because of the gradual slopes at each end, will accommodate a vehicle with a three inch ground clearance.

Regarding the statement that "... we have weak bridges and the council says there is no money for repairs ...", I would point out that over recent years the council has invested a great deal of money in the refurbishment and strengthening of its own highway bridges. Bridges currently subject to temporary restriction (such as Newport Street, Green Lane, and Lostock) are owned by Railtrack. Bolton MBC is working with Railtrack to restore these vital bridge links, which are often only appreciated by the travelling public when they are lost.

John Evans

Head of Highway

Management

Bolton Metro