Hundreds of residents and businesses had their say about proposed traffic calming measures aimed at slowing down cars in Totnes town centre.

Nearly 750 people took part in the recent consultation carried out by Totnes Town Council on behalf of Devon County Council.

The feedback will be used to determine if local people support the county council’s proposal to narrow Fore Street in three places.

The suggested traffic calming measures were designed by highways engineers in response to calls to make the road safer and reduce the amount of traffic in the heart of the town.

Many residents and visitors complained they do not feel safe in the town centre due to the combination of narrow pavements and high volumes of often fast-moving traffic.

Attempting to balance the needs of both residents and shopkeepers within the historic market town, highways officers proposed narrowing the road in three places to deter Fore Street from being used as a short-cut and to slow down vehicles while still maintaining access for shopping, deliveries and servicing.

As well as the online survey which ran from January 18 to March 31, Totnes Town Council held a drop-in event at the Civic Hall in February.

People came along to find out more about the proposed plans and discuss their ideas directly with officers leading the consultation.

Town clerk Catherine Marlton said: “There have been repeated requests for action to be taken to reduce the speed and number of cars using the high street to make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

“It is not straightforward to come up with a solution that keeps everyone happy as there are many different needs within the community, and we must respect the historic nature of our town.

“By holding this consultation, we can be sure local people support Devon County Council’s proposal before taking any action.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has taken the time to complete our online survey to share their views.

“We’re now collating all these responses, including feedback from local businesses, the chamber of commerce and Bob the Bus, so we can gauge whether the public would like these proposed measures to go ahead.

“Councillors will examine the consultation report in May and feedback to Devon County Council.

“Devon County Council will need time to process this information and consider any changes needed to the proposals before any traffic calming measures can be implemented.”