A CONSULTATION is due to start that could see a one-way system for a road in Presteigne implemented permanently.

Under delegated powers, on Wednesday, January 15, Portfolio holder for Highways, Recycling and Assets, Heulwen Hulme (Independent – Rhiwcynon), will start the process for making a section of Hereford Street one way between Lugg View and the public car park.

Hereford street is part of the B4356 that is also part of the town’s High Street.

This is seen as an “experimental trial” which will allow Presteigne residents to have their say on the changes during the first six months of it’s implementation.

Powys County Council (PCC) traffic and travel manager Tony Caine, said in the report: “Following the completion of phase two of the Active Travel improvements in Presteigne it has been highlighted that the narrowest section of Hereford Street would benefit from being made one way.

“Before the improvements Hereford Street was already too narrow to cater for parked vehicles outside the terraces on the one side whilst permitting two vehicles to pass.

“Vehicles used to mount the foot-ways and drive along them to pass each other.

“To prevent this from happening bollards were placed in the foot-ways.

“As part of the Active Travel Scheme the foot-ways have been widened slightly and the bollards removed to provide and obstacle free space for pedestrians and cyclists to share.

“To avoid the improved foot-way being driven along it is considered making the narrow section on Hereford Street is necessary.”

Mr Caine added that putting the bollards back in the foot-way would go against the purpose of the Active Travel Scheme which is supposed to improve facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.

His suggestion is that a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) can be made to allow a one way system to operate as an “experiment”.

This would allow changes to be made following comments from the public on the one way system.

“The trial can last for 18 months and can be made permanent should it prove successful,” said Mr Caine

Local Councillor and current Chair of PCC, Cllr Beverley Baynham (Independent) has said that she supports the proposal.