THERE is something seriously wrong with a city transport system that can be brought to a standstill for several hours by one broken drain cover.

When the fact the drain cover was a danger was known some 15 hours before action was taken, creating a situation where drivers were trapped in their cars for several hours, then incompetence becomes a liability.

When these problems come on top of regular traffic flow disasters for Southampton throughout the year, it is a real cause for concern.

A city that professes to compete for business and attract investment and visitors cannot allow itself to create a reputation for congestion and traffic nightmares.

A city where the roads do not flow is one where commerce cannot take place.

It is a city that others will ridicule and avoid.

Southampton needs to solve its traffic problems, and quickly.