Regarding your article advising that the Itchen Bridge tolls are increasing I do feel that there should be some changes which will benefit both certain residents and the pollution problems. The changes I would like to see the City make are:-

• Dedicate one lane for those with Smartcards. Frequently time is wasted waiting for someone who has not used the bridge before to sort themselves out.

• Extend the reduced rate to residents of Netley and Hamble. I live 500 yards from the city boundary and the fee is 25% more. For most residents in these two villages it is debatable whether it is cheaper to use the bridge as against using Northam Bridge. The latter route is longer resulting in greater pollution.

• Re-open the car park adjacent to the Bridge Office and encourage park and ride from there. This will reduce the number of cars crossing the bridge and hence pollution.

If all three were implemented then there would be a reduction in car usage and pollution either by shorter journeys or queuing.

I am making the above points in a letter to your Editor for publication and will be sending a copy to the City Centre.

Idris Curtis

Netley Abbey