A MAJORITY of local shopkeepers have reported an increase in trade since the introduction of the one-way system.
That was the message at a meeting of the one-way trial Stakeholders Group this week – comprising members of the local community who have lead the scheme – where it was heard that the High Street has been busier since the introduction of the new traff
ic system in February.
However, it was also discussed that the continued success of the one-way trial – which was given the green light by local councillors at a cost of £40,000 in a bid to ease congestion – is dependent on the regular availability of parking spaces on the high street.
Stakeholders Group chairman Tom Hartop told the Hawick News: "Undoubtedly there are more people using the high street due to the increase in parking spaces, but to encourage more users, a parking limit of 30 minutes was put in place to ensure that space was not taken up by long-term parking."
And alluding to the appointment of the town's new traffic warden, Mr Hartop went on: "With the new warden in place, those parking longer than 30 minutes run the risk of prosecution, as will drivers who park in areas designated for buses or loading and unloading."
It was also highlighted at Monday night's meeting that the one-way system has displaced traffic onto other streets in the town, but that several measures – including the altering of pedestrian signal timings – have been put in place to maintain traffic flow and improve pedestrian safety. And further measures to cope with increased traffic at the town's roundabouts is currently in the hands of BEAR Scotland and Transport Scotland.
But local drivers have been complimented for adapting to the new road marking and signs, for example a no right turn on to Mart Street from the library.
However, as the new scheme reaches the half-way stage of the trial, the Stakeholders Group is now preparing to conduct an in-depth survey of approximately 1,500 members of the public.
Chairman Tom Hartop explained: "It is important that the public remember that the progress of the one-way trial is absolutely their decision, and we will take on board any comments that are put forward. It's not for the stakeholders group or the council to decide, but for townsfolk."
He added: "The survey will ensure that all shades of public opinion are consulted. But the scheme appears to be well on its way to achieving its aims of returning vibrancy to the town centre and maintaining steady traffic flow without compromising safety."
