MICHAEL J ASTILL, of The Orchard, Modbury, writes:

I am writing about the ‘A few words from Salcombe Town Council’ column, Gazette, June 24, to respond to Salcombe Town Council and South Hams Council about the overdue idea that is under discussion to make better use of an area in Whitestrand car park.

For some time, as a regular user of the town, and more to the point the centre of the town, I very much support the idea of perhaps decking part of it for retail or catering – where else is there for such a magnificent view of the beautiful estuary and bustling harbour, sadly often marred by the comings and goings of cars and ­motorbikes?

The slipway, for instance, with the excellent slipway ­facilities at both Batson and in Kingsbridge. Surely the town does not need a slipway at Whitestrand any more.

Would it not be fantastic if during the busy holiday season Whitestrand became the town square, totally traffic-free apart from disabled vehicles; and the old-fashioned seating at the front could be replaced at little cost to both councils if they looked into the idea of the ­public buying and sponsoring a seat/bench, perhaps in memory of a loved one.

However, another, perhaps controversial, subject that I am sure has been discussed and thought about many times in Salcombe – restricting traffic up as far as the New Harbour Hotel through Fore Street, say from 10.30am till 4pm.

Technology has moved on and now there are bollards available that can retract into the highway that can be ­operated by infrared keys by, for example, delivery drivers or emergency vehicles.

Many towns, and some in the south west with traffic-management issues, use this system nowadays: just imagine how pleasurable it would be for pedestrians and motorists alike if Salcombe’s Fore Street was mostly traffic-free for a period every day in the summer.

Without any cost at all to both councils, they could run a trial period by just signage, ­perhaps.

Parking is a subject that South Hams Council must look further into. I know the park and ride provides a superb service; however, for the family down for a few days with a small dingy or boat and all the kit it poses a problem.