How about keeping cars off Fore Street?
The success of Kingsbridge’s Celebration of Christmas event showed just how vibrant Fore Street can be without the presence of cars. It was lovely to see people wandering from shop to shop and stall to stall, without dodging the traffic.
Imagine a summer’s day, with cafe tables outside and local people and tourists alike being able to sit down and enjoy the sunshine before carrying on with the shopping or sightseeing. This would be a real possibility if firstly the shopkeepers could see past their natural resistance that cars equals shoppers equals trade. The reality is that cars disrupt shoppers meaning less trade. Of course the second barrier would be getting the County Council to even consider pedestrianising Fore Street.
Bu why not? If continental towns can manage it - allowing vehicles to enter the area at particular times of the days for loading and unloading - then why can’t we?
What are your views?
Financial crisis?
As a member of Kingsbridge Agenda 21 Group I take an interest in all aspects of local sustainability, and one relates to the sustainability of the local economy and people’s personal finances.
The worldwide financial crisis (credit crunch) was itself brought about by unsustainable financial practices – such as ignoring people’s ability to repay their mortgages, and paying bank staff exorbitant bonuses. The resultant financial meltdown has implications for us all.
But does living in and around Kingsbridge bring any special concerns, or on the other hand offer any ways in which we can protect ourselves from the worst of the troubles?
An immediate thought relates to the benefits of using the local Credit Union. Are we all aware of it? Have you any comments about local implications of the situation we face?