Edinburgh businesses appeal for pause in plans to close Cockburn Street and Victoria Street

Shops voice concern over traffic ban

Edinburgh businesses appeal for pause in plans to close Cockburn Street and Victoria Street

BUSINESSES have appealed for a pause on council plans to close Cockburn Street and Victoria Street to traffic.

The move, due to be discussed at today’s policy and sustainability committee, is one of a series of measures intended to create more space for people walking during the coronavirus crisis.

But the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has written to committee members highlighting the concerns of shops in the two streets.

Garry Clark, FSB development manager for Edinburgh, said businesses were all planning ahead for the eventual emergence from lockdown.

He said: “Any plans to close these streets to traffic need to be fully thought through with the interests of local businesses in mind.

“Local businesses have told me that they are concerned that there has been insufficient consultation on the planned measures and that any closures implemented during the lockdown or recovery phase could seriously damage already fragile businesses.”

Council leader Adam McVey defended the plans, claiming they would support the recovery of the city’s economy.

He said: “By establishing more space around shops, cafés and restaurants on streets like Cockburn Street and Victoria Street it will be possible to create places for people to walk, cycle, relax, interact and spend time in as restrictions are eased.

“Of course we are taking the practical needs of businesses into account, and we will be notifying all those affected as we progress plans. It’s essential to bring everyone with us as we move towards a ‘new normal’, benefiting the health, wellbeing and prosperity of the city.”