Traders in Kemp Town have condemned a proposed parking scheme, saying it could cost them business.

The residents' parking scheme is planned for the St James's Street and Queen's Park area of Brighton following public consultation.

It will fill a gap between existing schemes covering central Brighton and the area around the Royal Sussex County Hospital.

Brighton and Hove City Council says there are parking pressures caused by nearby shops, the seafront, the hospital and big firms such as American Express.

But traders around St James's Street say the area has worked well without restrictions and they should not be imposed now.

Tom Mannouch, secretary of the St James's Street Traders' Association, said: "It is another plan by the council to make money out of us. They are exploiting motorists to fill their funds.

"If these restrictions come in, people will go to places such as Eastbourne or Worthing where there is free or cheaper parking."

Mr Mannouch, who runs Thresher in St James's Street, added: "They are making it harder for people to come to the street."

The council sent 8,700 leaflets to residents and business employees.

The replies showed 59 per cent of residents supported the proposals, 36 per cent were opposed and five per cent had no opinion.

Business replies indicated 33 per cent were in favour, 65 per cent were opposed and two per cent had no opinion.

The results will be considered by the environment committee tomorrow when councillors will decide whether to go ahead with the scheme. If agreed, it would come into operation during the winter.

Transport councillor Craig Turton said: "Central Brighton has had parking restrictions for many years and has a thriving tourist industry and business district. Similar fears about the central Hove parking scheme have not materialised."