BID Camborne is asking people to complete a Cornwall Council survey regarding their views on proposed changes to the town centre.
Camborne Renew is one of 11 Town Deal projects to be given the go ahead by Government.
The latest public consultation took place this week in Camborne’s Wesley Centre. Exhibition boards included design proposals that are causing considerable controversy amongst local traders.
“We’re deeply worried that, if the Council gets its way, Camborne risks becoming a ghost town,” said Sharron Lipscombe-Manley, chair of BID Camborne and a shop owner herself.
“Plans showcased at their exhibition include road colour changes and a layout that will deter drivers from going down the main street.
“The Council’s consultants say they aren’t reducing parking but, by allocating more spaces for disabled drivers, they’re effectively discriminating against those who aren’t disabled.
“The planters and green spaces are a lovely idea but once the Town Deal money has been spent who is going to maintain them? The last thing any of us want would be to see them looking old and tired through neglect.
“Businesses rely on the passing trade our main streets currently provide. Reducing traffic and making it more pedestrianised will be another nail in Camborne’s commercial coffin.
“With the cost-of-living crisis following hard on the heels of Covid, the last three years have been really tough and what is being proposed risks making things even worse.
“This is pedestrianisation through the back door and I urge everyone who shares that opinion to fill in the survey and make their views heard.”
The survey runs until Monday May 29 and is available online. Paper versions are also available in businesses throughout the town centre.
