LEWES CLAMPDOWN ON CARS FOR TWO DAYS

The county council is carrying out the experiment, in conjunction with environmental groups and the chamber of commerce.

The plan, as it currently stands, is to slow drivers down in the High Street, between St Andrew s Lane and the War Memorial, by means of temporary chicanes.

Organisers are hoping that local food and drink retailers will take the opportunity to put tables and chairs out in the street for their customers.

It is proposed to close Cliffe High Street, to Morris Road, to all but emergency vehicles, and again traders and shoppers will be encouraged to take over the streets.

There will be exhibitions in the pedestrian precinct and School Hill up to Albion Street will be blocked off, with access only for emergency services and buses.

At the same time there will be park-and-ride facilities at County Hall and Sackville House.

The experimental two days of pedestrian friendliness could be repeated in different ways at least once a year until a workable permanent solution to the town s traffic problems can be found.

Said chamber of commerce president, Malcolm Heaven: We are attending meetings to ensure that any restrictions on our members ability to trade are reduced to a minimum.

We have stated that there should be no reduction in the number of parking spaces available in Lewes, and that new spaces must be provided before any existing spaces are used for other purposes.

A step in the right direction, or a recipe for? Let us have your views on the best ways of solving the town s traffic problems. Email us using our link on the main menu!

Published: 7.6.01 Sussex Newspapers Ltd