ONCE again the voices of the residents have been ignored.

The majority agree that King Street as it is, is desperately in need of change.

Many would like full pedestrianisation so that visitors and residents can shop at their leisure and enjoy our town, but are realistic to know there must be compromise.

Time after time, any change has been blocked by a few traders afraid that those, often fit young men and women in a hurry, would not be able to jump out of their cars for a quick purchase, often parking on yellow lines.

There are many restaurants in the stretch; a meal usually takes more than the permitted hour for parking.

If people are not be prepared to walk one or two hundred yards (not half a mile) to park then it bodes ill for the health of the nation. I do believe one hour free parking in car parks may help.

The council have listened to all sections of the community; they have visited towns all over the country and come up with a compromise.

Plans have been put to consultation; over 70 per cent of residents were in favour. Perhaps it is time that some serious questions were asked about how it is that a few can influence planning decisions.

Regarding cost, perhaps the Guardian could, under the Freedom of Information Act, find the true cost to residents to date of trying to come up with an acceptable scheme.

I am concerned about young mothers with baby in a buggy and toddler by her side trying to shop, a carer with an elderly person avoiding steps leading directly onto the road, but, most of all, someone in a wheelchair trying to maintain their independence. At the moment I do not think it is possible for them to shop in King Street. I thought it was a legal requirement to provide for the disabled.

I know that the council have spent time and money consulting the residents even visiting other towns to see alternative schemes which could be considered. What a waste of time and money! I also understand we could also lose considerable government funding for our town.

I have lived in Knutsford for over 40 years and have always supported local traders, however, I am now minded to withdraw my support and shop elsewhere.

Jane McHarry Address supplied