NEW proposals looking to ban traffic from Colchester High Street have divided opinion.

Colchester Council is set to appoint consultants to ask people their views on pedestrianising the town centre.

A review of pedestrianisation was first requested by the policy and public initiatives panel last June.

Options for pedestrianisation include a shared space approach where other vehicles would still be able to access the town centre, while allowing pedestrians to have priority.

Another option is restrictions would only be effective on parts of the High Street and on certain days and times.

A scheme was put in place in 2013 banning traffic between 11am and 6pm although buses, taxis, motorbikes and cycles were allowed access.

This was suspended a month later due to public concerns.

A number of readers were sceptical a similar plan would work.

In a poll run on the Gazette website 53 per cent were in favour, while 47 per cent were against.

James Collitt said: “It’s either to be fully pedestrianised or not at all.

“If it’s just opened to taxis, buses and delivery lorries, what’s the point? Public will see no benefit.

“If they did go ahead and fully pedestrianise it then naturally the park and ride would have to be scrapped or route substantially changed. Personally it’s a no for me.”

 

Jeannine McAndrew said: “Survey after survey has shown that the people of Colchester don’t want a pedestrianised High Street.

“We tried it before and it was a very expensive mistake. I’m sure we can all list plenty of better ways to spend the money starting with more police and more CCTV.”

Janette Finch said: “Why would you? Town traffic doesn’t flow now. So how would anybody benefit from it? It would be a nightmare on an already nightmare.”

If there is support for pedestrianisation, Colchester Council will work with Essex County Council, the Business Improvement District, and other partners.

Cabinet agreed a total budget of £117,000 for projects including a pedestrianisation consultation.

Lee Scordis, who chairs the panel, said all views would be listened to adding it was important to get it right.

The meeting takes place at Colchester Town Hall at 6pm on January 9.