HASLEMERE-based One-World Design architect Chris Medland believes retail and leisure outlets in the town centre, concentrated in the conservation area, would benefit hugely from being less dominated by traffic.

Mr Medland, who has drawn up proposals to support his vision of a new-look Haslemere, said: “The atmosphere and space apparent during Haslemere Festival when the road is closed is fantastic.

“This can also be partly experienced at the farmers markets.

“It’s just an idea, but I think that by simply making two stretches of road – Lower Street and West Street – one way, a lot of the congestion pinch point issues would be dealt with.

“We could then have wider pavements, more on street parking, new green areas, more trees, more planting, and more access for cyclists and pedestrians, with less clutter.

“It would create a better street scene – and an even more attractive town centre environment.”