Volunteers are needed for simple surveys on Dorchester roads and paths – which may lead to improvements in the future.

The work is being undertaken by a group of volunteers who have each undertaken a short training session with Dorset Council.

Information they collate will be used to inform where changes might be needed, primarily for walking routes, but also for some cycle paths.

A previous traffic survey has discovered that many people are driving relatively short distances to get to the shops or restaurants in the town centre because the walking routes are considered to be difficult.

Town council planning committee chairman councillor Robin Potter says a typical 'problem' route involve heading towards town from the Celtic Park estate, or travelling from Manor Park to the leisure centre or schools: "It's fine and then it all falls apart at the Maumbury rail bridge," he said.

The bridge itself is a busy junction for both pedestrians, cyclists and cars. It has narrow pavements both sides which make being Covid safe impossible and has blind corners for those deciding not to cross at the only pedestrian-controlled point which some people avoid because waiting there results in people being crowded together.

The whole area has been a priority to improve traffic flows and pedestrian and cyclist safety but was abandoned by the previous Dorset County Council after deciding that the 'gyratory' system they were proposing was too expensive.

Those interested in the survey work should contact Cllr Frances Hogwood or Cllr Robin Potter via the town council offices in North Square, Dorchester.