I think I owe the Abingdon traffic planners an apology.

When Stratton Way was improved, there was total gridlock around town.

I resisted the temptation to write a letter then and gradually the situation appears to be changing.

Although Ock Street is still congested, the whole length at peak periods, and exiting West St Helen Street is almost impossible, due to stationary traffic in High Street, Drayton Road is returning to how it was previously.

However, at weekends, it is all change: Last Saturday, I walked the whole length of West St Helen Street and crossed Stert Street without negotiating any traffic at all.

It was a pleasure.

So, traffic planners, I am sorry I doubted your ability. It looks like you have been successful in creating a haven for local pedestrians by driving the shoppers away.

This, in turn, will create yet more vacant shop premises, to develop into much-needed apartments (apparently).

As a footnote; could someone please advise where all the extra people are coming from to warrant widening the pavements in Stert Street?

I have yet to witness pedestrians having to step into the road because of overcrowding.

Which reminds me - my car is running perfectly at the moment - must book it into a garage!

Christopher Brogden, Mill Road, Abingdon