The drop in information session was run by Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) and was an opportunity for residents and business owners to voice any concerns and raise any issues they may have about the designs of the noise walls.

RMS is aiming to keep traffic noise down to a 50 decibel limit which is comparable to the background noise in the average living room. They are doing this by low using stretches of noise pavement and noise walls.

Local resident Barry Matthews said, “Noise barrier wise, we were quite happy with the plans they have drawn up. They have done everything they can do to minimise noise.

“The bypass is going to be a positive for this town, it will take the trucks off the main street and it will become something of beauty.”

Mr Matthews’ biggest concern however is drainage. His business is still suffering from the damage caused in last years floods and he does not want to see the same or worse happen again.

An RMS spokesperson said, “The noise walls will be built on top of the road embankment above the one in 100 year flood level. The drainage for the road has also been designed for a one in 100 year flood event.”

Discussion of the design of the noise walls will be open to the community until January 16, 2012.