Councillors are calling for an experimental traffic scheme to be suspended so that traders can enjoy a happy Christmas.

Brighton and Hove City Council imposed an extension of pedestrianisation between 4pm and 6pm in George Street, Hove, for an 18-month trial from June.

But members of the Conservative group are calling for it to be shelved during the festive period and have tabled a motion to be discussed at a meeting of the city council on Thursday.

Councillor Ted Kemble said: "A survey of businesses has shown the order has in the vast majority of cases led to a significant downturn in trade.

"The extension of pedestrianisation has also caused considerable problems for the disabled."

The motion says the experimental extension should be suspended from October 1 to allow George Street shops to maximise takings during Christmas and New Year.

A review of the scheme should be brought forward with a view to restricting the extension in future to the summer months.

Thursday September 18, 2003