I fully support Emily Wilcox's letter (Oxford Mail, December 20), having been a taxi driver in Oxford for 40 years, during which time I have driven on almost every street in the city, and can rightly claim to have covered more than 1m miles.

Many of these roads have deteriorated over the past 10 years, to such an extent that they have become a potential danger to all.

Recently your paper issued reports describing protests by residents, hoping to have traffic calming measures installed in their roads.

These schemes have become a requirement of a few at the expense of the many, irrespective of real need.

There are very few side streets anywhere in Oxford where speeds in excess of 20mph can be reached, mostly due to the staggered parking bays, unauthorised parking, builders skips, etc.

Before the county council allocates any more taxpayers' money to these schemes they should establish a real need, do a proper survey of the roads in this city and carry out a full maintenance programme.

Why do they not seek the views of the professions (the emergency services) where a second's delay can be fatal, or those who have the unenviable task of transporting the elderly, sick and disabled through these obstructions.

In September this year a very close friend attended hospital for treatment to a brain tumour.

While receiving treatment it was necessary for the lady to be transported by ambulance to various Oxford hospitals.

She had hoped to complain to the authorities regarding the excruciating pain she endured while travelling through the many traffic-calming areas. Sadly she was unable to fulfil her wish.

Now through your paper I hope to do so on her behalf.

TED PEACH

Henwood

Oxford