Hamilton Plan set to be tabled in the House of Assembly within a few weeks.

It could result in the banning of traffic, except service vehicles, from lower Reid Street at certain times of the day, and will include ideas to improve public transport and reduce the number of private cars and bikes entering Hamilton.

Corporation of Hamilton secretary Roger Sherratt said the plan, the first to be drawn up since 1984, was the most comprehensive ever carried out.

He said it will also look at ways of encouraging residential development in the city, as well as ways to improve the sidewalks, buildings and facilities for pedestrians, senior citizens and the disabled.

And suggestions to boost trade and business in and around the city, including the North Hamilton area, are also included.

Mr. Sherratt said: "A great deal of effort was put into the plan from a wide variety of groups and individuals. There has been a tremendous amount of public consultation before getting it ready to be tabled in the House.

"The Corporation feels very strongly that we have had superb co-operation from the Planning Department, which has really spearheaded the plan.

"It is the most comprehensive plan we have done to date and has taken three years to complete.

"We have had a serious look at the traffic problem and have tried to establish a philosophy.

"We will have to see what discussion comes up now and whether or not it is adopted.'' The plan will be tabled in mid-November and the public will be given, from that time, at least two months to review it and make representations.

HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY HOA