Cyclists are to be stopped from pedalling through Felixstowe town centre.

The move is to improve safety for pedestrians along the shared space in Hamilton Road precinct now that cars have been banned between 10am and 4pm.

Helen Greengrass from Felixstowe Forward reported to town councillors last week how businesses are generally pleased

with the new measures and new pavement signs were to be placed outside shops.

Councillors reported a mainly positive response from the public, although Andy Smith expressed serious concerns regarding the access for the elderly and less abled.

One criticism was cyclists still being allowed to stay on the bikes and pedal through the area and Cllr Seamus Bennett suggested a 'cyclists dismount' sign be added at both ends of the shared space area.

Cllr Mike Deacon said: "Those people who have contacted me have said how grateful it has been closed and they feel safer shopping that area.

"The one fly in the ointment is cyclists and that has been an issue for some people. It is not all cyclists but there are some who need to be a lot more careful in that area."

Cllr Seamus Bennett agreed and said: "I am a keen cyclist and I would not like to see cyclists stopped from going through there.

"Looking at the city of Cambridge which is very pro-cycling it as a cycling dismount sign rule in key parts of the busy city centre.

"We should look at placing a sign saying cyclists should dismount in that main area between Boots and Bank Corner."

Steve Wiles, a Suffolk County and Felixstowe town councillor agreed a slight change in the order allowing the shared space could be made to accommodate the new sign.

He added: "The feedback I have had from traders, both nationally and independents, was guardedly optimistic.

"Some were doing very well and were bring back safe, which is excellent. Others were had their best day, while others are struggling.

"We have to remember some of our traders were struggling before Covid and will struggle now., but we are here to help them."

Some other town councillors had received positive feedback from shoppers about the new system.

Cllr Doreen Savage said: "People saying how much they were enjoying the new system as they had previously had near misses with cars going down the rad. So it would appear the general public is really appreciating the new measures."

Cllr Morris "It was lovely see so many people out and about and spread out and looking relaxed without having to worry about cars going along."

However, Cllr Smith, insisted some elderly people were struggling and there had been issues regarding parking, and the issuing of enforcement tickets.

"I find it bizarre that we make it virtually impossible for anyone who can not walk at least several hundred yards in comfort," Cllr Smith said. "That covers large part of our population. It is discriminatory against age and those with disabilities."

East Suffolk leader and town councillor Steve Gallant is pleased that fewer signs are being used and has urged more businesses to take advantage of the more spacious area available by offering outside seating areas.

The council has waived fees for licences allowing cafes and other shops to do this.

"Less is more in terms of signage is far better," said Cllr Gallant.

"Also, I would like to encourage cafes and others to spill out into the area with tables and chairs."

Cllr Nick Barber aired concerns about the cost of opening and shutting by Suffolk CC and questioned the sustainability of that and also said he had complaints about cyclists.

Mayor Mark Jepson confirmed the scheme would be reviewed on July 24.