I’M sure other readers will share my frustration at the issues which blight the quality of life for pedestrians in our town.

Vehicles parked on pavements, speeding traffic, crossings which don’t allow sufficient time for people to cross the road, dustbins on the pavement and free standing pavement advertising can make our area hostile and an unpleasant place to walk.

For older people or those with mobility, or eyesight problems, it can be downright dangerous.

Piecemeal and conflicting rules abound on these matters making it confusing for police, enforcement agencies, councils and all road users alike.

As the general election draws nearer, I would encourage readers to urge their local parliamentary candidates to support the charity Living Streets’ campaign for the introduction of an Active Travel Bill.

Such a piece of legislation could regularise rules on pavement parking, reduce speed limits on the streets where we live, work and go to school.

It would make walking safer and easier, which would benefit all of us.

An Active Travel Bill could not only reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads, but create a healthier environment where walking to school, to work or to the shops is a pleasure and not a hazard.

To take action and for more information visit the website livingstreets.co.uk/take-action

MICHAEL REED, New Park Road, Bournemouth