TRADERS have spoken out against plans to pedestrianise Churchgate, fearing it would lead to a loss of business.

Bolton Council has put forward proposals to turn the area into a pedestrian-friendly space by restricting traffic at certain times of the day.

The £70,000 project could be in place by June if the plans get the go-ahead.

On Tuesday, traders and shoppers were invited to view plans for the historical area and air their views.

Ann Weall, dance principal at Discomania Dance School, in Churchgate, said: "I am very concerned about the proposals.

"I chose this location because of parking and parents being able to drop off their children. I know the restrictions will be lifted at certain times of the day but that does not help me.

"What happens on Saturday, which is my busiest day? If the plans go ahead, I will lose out on new custom.

"Had I known this was going to happen, I would not have moved here 12 months ago."

Under the proposals, Churchgate, from the underpass at the bottom end of Churchbank, to the corner of Deansgate and Bradshawgate, will be partially pedestrianised to provide an area for street markets and events.

Pedestrian safety would also be improved with street lighting and CCTV cameras. There are also plans to landscape the area and provide better taxi facilities.

Businesses would be given permits to allow employees to drive into the area, but other vehicles would be banned between 10.30am and 4.30pm.

Ms Weall said: "This is a business area, not retail. There are other areas which would be better if pedestrianised."

Marie Walsh, who owns Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe in Churchgate, said: "We need deliveries throughout the day.

"We have this family business since 1898 and we are very worried.

"What we say does not matter the plans will go ahead."

Other concerns raised at the meeting included plans to turn the area into a continental-style drinking square and the loss of disabled parking.

Tony Watts, of Bolton Councils highways management department, said that the plans were aimed at putting pedestrians first and improving public transport, while keeping traffic away from the town centre.

He said: "There are competing requirements that we have to deal with

"I understand the issues and there is no point trying to improve if business cannot operate.

"We want to make the town centre more friendly."

Mr Watts said similar issues were raised when Victoria Square was pedestrianised.