OPINION is split over plans for temporary one-way traffic measures to be implemented in Helensburgh town centre.

Argyll and Bute Council is considering proposals to make some of the busiest roads through the town - including parts of West Clyde Street, East Clyde Street, Sinclair Street and West and East Princes Street - one-way to promote easier social distancing among pedestrians following the relaxation of lockdown.

The local authority has received £315,000 from the Spaces for People programme to deliver short-term infrastructure to make it safer for people using the area’s town centres for essential trips and exercise, and in the hope of aiding a post-pandemic economic recovery.

However, a statement in Rhu and Shandon Community Council's monthly newsletter said: "I have yet to speak to anyone who thinks this is a good idea.

READ MORE: One-way idea for busy streets in Helensburgh town centre to help social distancing

"We are still suffering from the traffic hold-ups at the Sinclair Street junctions with Princes Street and King Street resulting from CHORD and it is hard to see that the proposals will do anything but exacerbate these problems.

"We realise that the emphasis is on supporting businesses and social distancing, but what the proponents fail to realise is that virtually everyone from Rhu and Shandon has to drive into Helensburgh, before they can do either."

Helensburgh Community Council (HCC), meanwhile, said the proposed new system was completely supported, in principle.

"But it has to make practical sense and receive public support," a statement added.

"There are a number of general conditions that need to be taken into consideration.

READ MORE: Helensburgh's economy 'must be top priority' under one-way plans

"Any solution that is applied which affects the commercial viability of retail in the town centre will be strenuously resisted.

"An over-arching principle is that there should be no right-hand turns across oncoming traffic at junctions. It will be essential to keep traffic flowing freely in the town.

"We would conclude that the changes proposed in the Spaces for People Programme require further discussion and co-ordination between the community council, Argyll and Bute Council, the Chamber of Commerce and the police to confirm any outcome and that such an outcome is kept under constant review."

Similar traffic proposals have been drawn up for Oban, Dunoon, Rothesay, Lochgilphead, Tobermory and Campbeltown.

READ MORE: Helensburgh's MP and MSP back town centre one-way traffic plans

A survey on the proposals closed on Sunday, July 26, with the local authority praising the response from residents.

A council spokesperson said: “Unlike a large number of the local authorities involved in this process, we chose to consult with communities and businesses to get their ideas.

"The Spaces for People surveys across Argyll and Bute closed late on Sunday night and we are delighted with the number of responses we received – over 1,500 in total. Our thanks to everyone who took the time to give their views.

“We will now give our full attention to considering these views.

"It is important that we work with our businesses and their customers to continue to open our town centres as quickly and safely as possible.”

READ MORE: Click here for all the latest news stories from across Helensburgh and Lomond