At their meeting last Thursday evening, members questioned why there were proposals for more speed bumps to be incorporated along the street and suggested a "drop-off "point be created off the Kirriemuir Road.

They stated the speed bumps were "unfair to Taylor Street residents" as well as those in surrounding streets who were already bearing the brunt of increased traffic as motorists try to avoid the area.

Chairman Mrs Isobel Ross said: "The Scottish Government is allocating funding for local authorities to spend on 20 mph schemes in the vicinity of schools, and safety related projects.

"Although the funding is "ring-fenced", perhaps the time has come to look at the possibility of an alternative to more speed bumps in Taylor Street.

"With ring fenced funding and an application for more money from the Scottish Government or funding from external sources, would it not be possible to create a drop off/pick up area inside the school off the Kirrie Road where the grass verge is wide?

"This would relieve congestion in Taylor Street and the surrounding areas.

"Something has to be done, because slowing down the traffic with more speed bumps will cause accidents.

"What we have to remember is the residents of Taylor Street were there long before the school. We have got to move with the times."

Speed cushions were laid in the area in 2007 and a 20mph speed limit introduced. According to the council, this has been effective in reducing traffic speed. However, traffic surveys have shown speeds are still generally higher than 20mph.

To reduce traffic pace further, a further set of speed cushions will be laid at the east and west ends of Taylor Street and other cushions moved nearer together.

A public consultation has now been set up, with local residents asked for their views on the plans via a questionnaire which has to be returned by June 30.

News that the council was proposing to introduce additional traffic calming measures in Taylor Street sparked a barrage of criticism from readers who have written to the Dispatch and Herald over the last two weeks.

One resident who contacted our office two weeks ago stated in a letter: "Speed humps are not needed. There are enough cars and buses parked around Forfar Academy to provide traffic calming.

"The only people who slow down for the humps are the residents of the area. Visiting vehicles just fly over the humps. The effectiveness of speed humps in this area is zero."

Another reader wrote "in dismay" last week stating: "I am totally disgusted as to why we need the extra safety measures, the reason being that they don't not stop the public from speeding along Taylor Street at any time of the day, worse during school hours."

The writer claimed bus drivers, in particular, do not slow down, especially if they are running late.

The "annoyed Taylor Street resident" added: "I also note that such safety measures are in place around Forfar Academy and Whitehills Primary School, not the new Langlands or Strathmore Primary Schools. Why?"

At last Thursday's community council meeting members stated they were unhappy that residents of Taylor Street are being asked to respond to an on-line questionnaire as some residents may not have this facility and others might feel uncomfortable going on-line.

Forfar Councillor Bill Middleton commented both he and his wife, fellow councillor Glennis Middleton who was unable to attend last Thursday's meeting, were both against increasing the amount of speed bumps in Taylor Street.

He said after the meeting: "In my view what is being proposed is excessive. Glennis was not at the meeting but asked me to also make that point on her behalf."

A spokesperson for Angus Council confirmed the consultation process was on-going and, once completed, the council would look at all the options.