March 2011
Plans are afoot to make the Old Town one way. Apparently it will cost £1.3 million. I suppose it will improve safety and make the area more attractive but why don’t they go all the way and pedestrianise it? Apparently shopkeepers are against the idea because they fear it will deter drivers because there will be nowhere to park. But that’s not borne out by the experience of places like nearby Chesham where they’ve had a pedestrianised high street for ages.

True, Chesham has ample car parks but I’m sure more parking could be found around the Old Town if the council really wanted  to do it. Without cars, imagine how much more appealing it could be. Cafes and restaurants could have outdoor areas for eating and drinking, we could have outdoor entertainment, and kids (and adults) could run around without fear of being run over,  My guess is that in years to come, the Old Town high street will be pedestrianised. So why don’t save time and do it now!