CITIZEN Smith was condescending and rude to residents near the proposed Northern bypass, and to the Green party, last week.

It has been estimated that, in its opening year, the bypass will reduce traffic by 20 per cent at best at peak times, taking between two and 10 minutes off journeys between Morecambe and Lancaster or the M6. Not very much when residents have to suffer 24/7.

Even with a bypass, traffic will be as bad as ever within a few years. It will generate more traffic, as all new roads do, if housing, industry and out-of-town shopping develop close by.

The bypass will be horrendous to all residents along its route, especially to the people of Russell Drive, who will have eight lanes of traffic virtually in their back garden.

And do you realise how high the bypass will have to rise over the railway and canal as it continues through beautiful undulating countryside to Junction 34? An eyesore for miles around.

We belong to no political party. However, we think this bypass will cause devastation and pollution to residents and beautiful countryside, to little avail. Surely there has to be a better solution.

All for £85 million of taxpayers' money. And does anyone believe that will be the final cost?

Irene & David Gate, Lancaster.