IT can only be hoped that the proposed merger of local councils will lead to some joined-up thinking about the road network.

Ringwood Road was at a standstill both ways on Friday and the A31 was little better. Work at Hurn is tinkering at the edges of a major local issue.

New housing, which is desperately needed, has been approved with little or no consideration given to the road infrastructure and with the proposed developments along Magna Road and at Parley the situation, already at breaking point, will only deteriorate.

Placing an immediate weight limit on Longham Bridge would immediately ease traffic flow through Bearwood and Ferndown. But until a plan is developed for the entire area, I will shop on the web to the further detriment of High Street retailers.

DAVID OATEN

Pinehurst Road, West Moors