A trial scheme is being lined up to ban cars from two busy shopping streets.

But traders warn pedestrianising East Street and Market Square in Horsham could be disastrous for business.

Planners are asking the public for their comments on the experimental changes which would last a year and stop cyclists and cars using the areas for between four and six hours a day.

If the project wins approval the traffic ban could be in place as early as November.

Swan Walk, West Street and Middle Street are already pedestrianised.

But Karen Grover, an area manager for Cancer Research UK, which has a shop in East Street, said blocking traffic access could stop people dropping off donations.

She said: "It is going to be very hard for us because our business relies solely on donations from customers.

"We are very fortunate to be well supported in Horsham and we get between 500 and 800 bags donated each week, mainly by car.

"Pedestrianisation will have a huge impact on us.

"We make a really healthy profit, but this could be disastrous for us."

Other businesses have raised questions over access for deliveries.

Julia Campbell, of Sussex Blinds and Awnings in East Street, said: "We have a lot of blinds delivered to us.

"For the customers point of view it might be a good thing, but not for deliveries."

If the experiment is approved, new seating areas, plants and benches would be installed, but not as many as in a permanent scheme.

West Sussex County Council's North Horsham Local Committee is expected to discuss the trial pedestrianisation in September.

If approved, work could begin in November to make the changes.

For first six months of the scheme the public will be able to comment on whether it should be extended.

Full planning permission will be needed before any permanent changes are made.

Chris Carey, the head of property and economic development at Horsham District Council, said: "The viability and vitality of the town centre is a huge issue for the district council.

"Most of the town centre is already pedestrianised.

"We have had some responses already. Most are generally supportive."

He stressed that public comments received during the consultation will not be ignored when it comes to final proposals for the future.

Comments on the proposals should be made by June 8 to Chris Carey, Head of Property & Economic Development, Horsham District Council, Park North, North Street, Horsham RH12 1RL, or by email to chris.carey@horsham.gov.uk.