A traffic-free St. James's Street?

St. James's Street is a narrow, old-fashioned shopping street and the proposal to close it to traffic for a trial period is surely to be welcomed. 70% of traders in the street are said to be in favour. The improvements in air quality and the general shopping environment would be considerable. It might result in some incovenience to bus passengers who use stops in the street but all parts are within easy walking distance of stops in the Old Steine, Edward Street, Rock Place or Marine Parade.

A concomitant benefit is that, if this measure were to be adopted permanently, it would allow closing of the crossover road between Castle Square and St. James's Street so allowing  the two green spaces of the Old Steine gardens to be reunited into one more accessible space.

See also:- Valley Gardens Consultation.