AN experimental system to test the effect on traffic levels and safety in Salisbury Cathedral Close has delivered some surprising results.

Salisbury Cathedral tested alternative traffic access in the Close throughout August.

The experiment involved the closure of High Street Gate in the afternoons and the use of St Ann’s Gate.

With even more visitors expected to visit the cathedral next year for the Magna Carta celebrations, the trial was designed to gather information about ways to reduce traffic volumes.

Traffic consultants ADL Consulting concluded there are benefits in closing High Street Gate at peak visitor periods. They also revealed that school-related traffic, at about 57 per cent, is a greater contributor to traffic generation than previously realised.

The report says these findings indicate a need for further action.