I AM 78 and I drive through Poole Park for pleasure most days, though not between 4-6pm.

I oppose the proposed traffic restrictions for the following reasons:

1) It is a mistake to assume that drivers do not enjoy the views of the park because they are in a car and not walking.

2) I am grateful to all those who spend their working days in Poole shops and offices, providing services to the public, often in artificial light and without fresh air. Why should they, the backbone of Poole’s working community, be deprived of a pleasant drive through the park both morning and evening?

3) Dorset has many retired residents and visitors, a fair number of whom suffer from severe breathing difficulties or walking problems. It is not possible for such people to walk from one area of the park to another.

I think the road closure clearly discriminates against them.

4) With regard to the use of the prejudicial term ‘rat run’ - either all drivers are ‘rats’ or none are. People simply choose the route that suits them best.

5) Consider the residents of Parkstone Road and Sandbanks Road. Parkstone Road, in particular, is subject to heavy traffic throughout the day, and the 4-6pm closure would only make conditions worse for the numerous people living there.

6) The main areas for children to play are a fair distance from the road, and with regard to pollution, the prevailing wind comes from the south-west across the harbour and lake.

7) In short, I think that the duty of the Poole Park administrators should be to ensure that the pleasures of the park be made available as widely as possible throughout the day.

JOHN MATHIESON

Panorama Road, Poole

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