Traffic-free Cliffe

CLIFFE High Street once again showed how pedestrian-friendly it can be when it shut its doors to traffic between Railway Lane and Morris Road on Saturday.

Unlike other parts of the Lewes High Street, there appeared to be little to criticise in the way the Cliffe turned its back on the car.

The street was packed with shoppers and many businesses took the opportunity to put tables and chairs out to supply refreshments.

The weather was kind and there was a rich vein of entertainment, including a jazz band, buskers, folk musicians, jugglers and stilt walkers.

County councils officials monitored the traffic situation and reported few problems.

There was a park-and-ride scheme at each end of the town and the local bus service 27 and 27A was free all day, with usage doubling for the occasion.

A large exhibition in the Cliffe precinct demonstrated that changes in driver habits and improved servicing of vehicles can make a contribition to improving air quality.

Said lead transport cabinet member Cllr Anthony Reid: Changes in habits, however small, will all contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for us all to enjoy.

The Streets Ahead festival was supported by local authorities, the Friends of the Earth, Cycle Lewes and Lewes Chamber of Commerce.