PLANS have been unveiled which could see one-way traffic introduced on three of the busiest streets in Helensburgh.
Argyll and Bute Council has launched a survey seeking the public's views on the temporary proposal, which it says could make it easier for people to comply with social distancing rules.
Parts of Sinclair Street, Clyde Street and Princes Street would be affected if the suggestion - accompanied by the widening of pavements - becomes reality.
The plans for Sinclair Street would see the one-way system implemented from Clyde Street to King Street, while Clyde and Princes Streets would go one-way between Charlotte Street and William Street.
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Through traffic would be diverted via Old Luss Road, King Street and William Street if the measures are implemented.
Those taking part in the consultation are being asked what direction they feel that traffic should travel in any one-way system.
The proposals have been made after the council received £315,000 from the Spaces for People programme to deliver temporary infrastructure to enable safer access for people who are walking, cycling or on wheels during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The council said in a statement: “Within Helensburgh, we have identified opportunities to widen the existing footways to increase space for everyone to socially distance and move around safely, including queueing to access shops and medical centre.
“This footway widening will require selected streets to be made one-way for traffic and existing on-street parking spaces to be removed.
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“We plan to keep on-street disabled parking, loading bays, taxi ranks and bus stops, although some may require to be moved to another location.
“The proposal is to make the streets one-way for all vehicular traffic to enable the footways to be widened to help everyone socially distance and feel safe when visiting the town centre.”
The Spaces for People programme is funded by Transport Scotland and administered by Sustrans.
Councillor Alastair Redman, the council’s policy lead for economic growth, said: “We have some initial ideas on how we help reopen our towns.
"Before putting anything in place, we want to consult with local businesses and residents first to find out what they think.
“We need to create more space for people to move around safely and use our local businesses as they open up.
“This might involve moving into public realm areas.
"Measures put in place will be designed to be temporary, for as long as we have to deal with Covid-19, and will focus on protecting public health, supporting physical distancing and kick-starting our economy.
“Consultations will be on-line and will be done quickly as it is vital people are given the opportunity to start getting out and making use of our town centres again as safely as possible.
“I would urge everyone to give us your views as it is really important that residents and businesses feel supported.”
The survey went live on Thursday and is open until Sunday, July 26 - click here to take part.
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