I AM writing in response to your correspondent Mike Carlile, ‘Too many flaws on the Common’ (Letters, December 4).

To be clear, readers can be assured that the Three Towns Travel improvement package at Horseshoe Common is a prime example of a co-ordinated and well thought out set of works that complement the ongoing regeneration in this part of town.

The aim of the new street layout is to create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment for those who live, work and travel through the area.

The project has been designed in accordance with guidance commissioned by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and has been developed in consultation with DOTS disability group who specifically requested the tactile paving.

Providing an open space for pedestrians to enjoy the area in a safe manner is a key part of the scheme.

Night-time road closures will be in place at weekends at the centre of Horseshoe Common. In doing this we must ensure access is maintained at all times for emergency vehicles, those who live in the area, as well as those with disabilities who also want to enjoy the new facilities that are on offer.

New public toilets will be included within the Citrus Building development overlooking Horseshoe Common and will be open as of next summer.

This was a condition as part of the planning consent.

With regard to parking at the Common there is clear signage advising motorists that the area is a restricted parking zone.

I am not aware of further issues over double parking now that enforcement is in operation, having only given warnings to motorists previously.

The number of people using the new multi-storey car park at nearby Madeira Road is on the increase and demand for more parking at the Lansdowne is also on the up as a result of recent development.

Like Mr Carlile I too will finish on a positive note by encouraging people to visit the area to see and experience the improvements that have been made to this up and coming part of the town.

CLLR JOHN BEESLEY, Leader of Bournemouth council