Lynne Stewart, of Earnscleugh, near Clyde, presented a petition to the Central Otago District Council last week
to ban heavy traffic and enforce a 30kmh speed limit in the historic Sunderland St area of Clyde.
''I've come to support cyclists and pedestrians and general safety through the historic precinct of Clyde,'' she said.
The petition was signed by 64 Clyde residents including most of its historic precinct businesses.
Large vehicles ruined the atmosphere of the area, she said.
''People are trying to enjoy a quiet wine or quiet dinner outside and then a rumbling truck will ruin it.''
Some vehicles used the town as a shortcut but did not need to go through Sunderland St, she said.
She suggested an alternate route where vehicles turn at Dunstan Hospital before reaching the street.
Central Otago Mayor Tony Lepper said the issue would be taken to the Vincent Community Board for consideration.
''The planning for Clyde needs to be done by local people. There is a real social element to this.''
Most large vehicles were permitted to cross the nearby bridge on the Clyde-Earnscleugh road but there was a weight restriction which excluded some when fully loaded.
''If these vehicles are going across the bridge, they need to be stopped,'' he said.
Council infrastructure services manager Jon Kingsford said it would reassess Clyde's traffic in December.
By Jono Edwards.
