U-turn?

Much of the recent traffic chaos could have been alleviated had south-moving traffic been routed along the now obstructed North Street and a right turn permitted at the southern end.

Bicester is acknowledged to be the among the fastest-growing towns in Europe. Yet it can be reduced to an extended car park by road works, a refuse collection or any vehicle loading or unloading along this short length of road. This is farcical considering the recent multi-million pound development and expenditure on roads.

My wife noted in the Advertiser a planning application for a coffee shop. Bicester needs another coffee shop like it needs another charity shop. Still, I suppose after trudging across yet another desert of pedestrianisation, one needs to sit down and consider where to buy shoes, or perhaps clothing for the more mature lady's special occasion or perhaps where to buy six nails rather than being forced into buying one hundred.

The council is not promoting Bicester as an attractive place for retailers. Increasing shop rates before existing shops have had time re-establish a customer base after the recent upheaval is not a good start. If they are so keen to raise money, rate the charity shops, for some appear to be selling an increasing amount of “new” goods.

As to the concern for the River Bure drying out in places, though rare, it has happened several times in my lifetime. On the positive side, it is an opportunity for conservationists to remove rubbish from the riverbed. It’s a pity the council does not take advantage of the Bure running alongside the new shopping precinct.

J Dennis, Barry Avenue, Bicester