WINCHESTER town chiefs have backed ideas for a review of the city's one-way system.

Mike Slinn, resident of 33 years, presented his thoughts on how traffic could be improved at Wednesday's town forum.

He said the current system is out of date, and put forward ideas for two-way traffic on some city centre streets.

“It's not fit for purpose in the 21st century,” he said.

“I'm proposing a review. It could reflect walking and cycling access, for shoppers and the city scape.”

The former highways and transport engineer and planner suggested making traffic two-ways in North Walls, Union Street, Friarsgate, St George's, Jewry, High and Sussex streets.

He also said a mini roundabout in North Walls at its Durngate junction could improve traffic flow and safety.

Cllr Fiona Mather said a review is “desirable” but two-way traffic could fragment the city.

Transport chief Cllr Mike Southgate, who called for a review in August, said: “The one-way system is long overdue for review. There's a whole range of options, and I'm not sure I agree with all the disadvantages and benefits [put forward by Mr Slinn].

Silver Hill gives us an opportunity to review the whole one-way system whether in its totality, or sections at a time.”

Chairman Cllr Robert Hutchison said the forum would “leave it with the transport forum and portfolio holder to take forward.”