SHOPPERS and businesses are being asked whether they think pedestrianising Braintree High Street is a good idea.

A consultation has been opened by Braintree Council to understand how people feel about stopping vehicles from using High Street in a bid to revitalise the town centre.

The council says if most back a pedestrian zone it will begin work on plans for shop deliveries, bus stops and access for emergency service vehicles.

It is understood up to £5 million could be invested in the plans which would include Market Place and most of High Street up to St Michael's Lane.

However, Braintree Council is understood to prefer a full pedestrianisation of the high street.

Richard Sambridge, manager at The Natural Way on High Street, said: "I think for us it would be good idea.

"When we have the street markets on Saturdays we see a real increase in how many people come into the shop because they feel comfortable walking along here."

Marion and Becky Horsley of Shake Express, which sits just past the potential pedestrian zone, were undecided on the proposals.

Marion said: "It's something we've spoken about a lot and we're very much undecided.

"Our fear, and we know the council don't want to create this kind situation, is that it would become a barrier for people in that they get to the end and turn around.

"Ultimately the decision has to made based on what is best for the town as a whole."

Becky said: "We have plenty of customers who stop outside and come in which we could lose, but then we might make that up in people walking along the high street."

Council economic development boss Tom Cunningham said: "Ultimately we want to tackle the issues that are affecting every high street in market towns like ours and make Braintree a destination people want to visit.

"One of the options we are exploring is the idea of further restricting vehicle access to part of the town centre, which we believe will create a more social environment for residents and allow more opportunities for town centre events, just like our street markets.

"It would also help Essex County Council to make long-term improvements to the roads and pavements.

"We want to understand what people think of that idea before we make any decisions so I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the poll and let us know what you think."

Residents can have their say by completing the poll at www.braintree.gov.uk/pc or by visiting Braintree Town Hall or Causeway House in the town centre.

The closing date for the consultation is Monday, October 15, at 5pm.