"IMPROVE the bypass and leave the town centre alone," that was the message from the Farnham Society, who are strongly opposed to planned changes to the town's infrastructure.

This was their response having seen the recent "Getting about in Farnham" exhibition at the Maltings, which they believe provides no effective solutions to mounting traffic problems,

A scathing report from their traffic management group (TMG) stated that the exhibition "failed to provide any details of the betterment and no assessment of the traffic delay, additional pollution, environmental impact or potential loss of business in the town."

They believed that the Downing Street proposals for single-lane traffic had already been "completely rejected" by people and traders in the town, and felt that action on the bypass must come first.

One measure they did approve of, was the third westbound lane for the A31, and are seeking a 50 mph speed limit on the bypass for safety reasons.

The TMG did not believe the visual displays of what the town might appear with revised traffic management measures, would improve the look of the town.

Their report continued: "We all have an interest in the maintenance of the town as a market town in its historic setting, but almost all traffic management schemes are a visual eyesore with too many street signs, and painted marks on the roads and pavements.

"It is known that the borough has one of the higher pollution rates in Surrey, yet there was no mention of this in the exhibition, and indeed the proposals as they stand will lead to greater pollution throughout the town."

They felt that without a north-south bypass, there was no clear way ahead to reduce traffic demand through the town.

They argued that should the already limited road space through the town be restricted any further, this would have "serious consequences," namely traffic diverting to even more unsuitable roads within the area, creating additional 'rat-runs'.

Acknowledging that pedestrian safety was a pressing issue, they felt it could be solved by better signing, lighting and pavement surfaces.

Public transport within the town was also discussed by the group, who felt that bus services and shelters were "inadequate," and that a bus service around the town centre was required, as was an upgraded bus interchange.

The group did not believe that Farnham was particularly suited to cycling given the hilly terrain surrounding the area, and the demographics of the population, which include a large number of elderly people.

It was their opinion though, that secure bike parking was definitely needed.

In conclusion, the Farnham Society would rather see the town kept as it is, than implement the proposals put forward at the exhibition, which they say offer "few benefits and many disadvantages."

At the very least, they say that the changes should be given a trial before any schemes are implemented.