I always thought I was in entirely in support of the urban village plan and that the protesters who ranted on about traffic problems were just a load of moaners.

I have to say I have now changed my mind.

Because of road works, I was forced to change my route into Northwich and I have found out first hand just how problematic the traffic lights and the single track bridge at Winnington really is, especially if you are a little bit late at getting into work in the morning.

I still think the urban village is basically a sound idea and but I now am equally as certain that major improvements to the roads infrastructure must be put in place to accommodate the extra transport demands which inevitably will be placed on the area.

I am in favour of progress and think Northwich is well overdue an economic shot in the arm - but not at any price.

I am sure that some organisations and companies stand to make a healthy profit when the urban village plan goes ahead and I am not opposed to that either, but I think it is of vital importance that Vale Royal Borough Council insists that road and bridge improvements come before anyone's profit.

I have seen the Wallerscote works described as an eyesore in the past, but at least you can drive past relatively quickly. If nothing is done about the bridge, queueing motorists will have a long time to study the beauty of the urban village.

SIMON BARNES

Progress is good...but not at too high a price