ENFORCING a traffic ban in Braintree town centre can help to increase footfall, it is claimed.

Essex County Council’s infrastructure boss Kevin Bentley is also hopeful the £3m pedestrianisation scheme will help to create a greener and healthier shopping experience for visitors.

Traffic, including buses, will be banned from driving through the town centre from Monday, August 24.

Exceptions will be made for emergency services and deliveries.

Mr Bentley said: “This is an important project for the future of Braintree town centre which we are pleased to work on in partnership with Braintree Council.

“Recent studies have shown that pedestrianisation of town centres boosts footfall and creates space for pedestrians and cyclists, cutting down on emissions and improving public health.

“Essex County Council thoroughly supports this move toward safer, greener, healthier streets in Braintree and across Essex.”

Marlborough Highways have been awarded the contract for the scheme.

Project manager Kevin Prince said: “It’s a great time for those living and working in Braintree to see their high street transformed.

“Many of our people working on the scheme are local to Braintree which makes it a special project for Marlborough.”