8.16.1 For Morpeth in particular, the problems associated with town centre traffic flows, ameliorated in 1970 by the opening of the bypass, have returned. Traffic flows on the Telford Bridge are now considerably in excess of levels experienced before 1970. Since then the benefits of removing non-essential traffic from town centres has been well established and in particular many attractive market towns throughout the country have benefited from the implementation of co-ordinated schemes of traffic management and environmental improvement.

8.16.2 The management of traffic in town centres can best be achieved if there are appropriate alternative routes on which to assign the flows removed from central streets. Accordingly improvements to the town's strategic highway network will be a prerequisite for a town centre improvement scheme. Policy T1 (ii) contained in the Plan will provide the necessary improvements to Morpeth's highway network to enable the consideration of schemes to reduce and control the flow of traffic through the town centre.

8.16.3 A particular problem concerns the provision for and location of overnight parking facilities for heavy goods and commercial vehicles. If there is no restriction on lorries using town centre car parks overnight, there is often a significant detrimental effect on the amenity of town centre residents due to noise from engines and refrigerator generators and damage to surfaces, signs and landscape features when vehicles manoeuvre in restricted areas at low speeds. It may be more appropriate for specific provision to be made for overnight lorry parking immediately adjacent to trunk roads so that there is no detrimental effect to bypassed communities.

8.16.4 The two significant commercial centres in the Borough are at Morpeth and Ponteland and accordingly detailed consideration of traffic management matters are contained in the relevant settlement chapters. However, the following general principles will need to be addressed where appropriate:-

i) The reduction of traffic volumes and vehicle speeds;
ii) The improvement of highway safety, with a presumption in favour of the pedestrian and cyclist;
iii) The improvement of accessibility and servicing for shops and business premises;
iv) The rationalisation and management of car and lorry parking;
v) The improvement of town centre environments and reduction of pollution from vehicles;
vi) The promotion of shopping and tourism.

8.16.5 Any traffic calming measures should not adversely affect the operation of both the emergency services and the bus services. Other small schemes will be carried out in accordance with an annually approved programme based on the objectives set out in the County's Local Transport Plan.