Just days after the council claimed it had a mandate for the works, Roy Spiers of computer shop ICN has been overwhelmed with people signing up to block the controversial scheme. Newbury MP Richard Benyon is also being lobbied to intervene on behalf of retailers worried about deliveries and access during the 10-6pm pedestrianisation.

The council consultation revealed 78% support for a scheme to rip up the car park and York stone flags, and resurface the area with imported Italian granite and trees. But most of the votes in favour came from a council mailshot, and among people filling in questionnaires, the result was just 50:50, of which most want the car park and through-road kept.

Most retailers – including pubs, bulky goods stores and florists – affected by the plans feared the scheme would make it harder for couriers and customers to reach them.

Interestingly, there’s no majority support for fairs, street theatre, sculptures or exhibitions, but over half want more al fresco cafés, music events, and “family-centred” activity.

Overall, the results revealed:

One in four don’t want the scheme.
One in four say the town won’t benefit
One in three think it won’t bring in more shoppers.
One in three think it’s a waste of money, but 40% of pensioners.
One in four want to keep the car park
Three quarters of people want to see Bear Lane upgraded
One in three don’t want decorative lighting.

However, there was good news for one group. The new Tory-run council agreed to remove references to a proposed cycling ban in the town centre, after lobbying by cycling groups.

Petition forms are available to sign at the following locations:

ICN Computers, Wharf Street
Vinyl Revival Records, Wharf Street
Bright Eyes and Bobtails, Market Place
Empire Café, Cheap Street
Motorists Discount, Mayors Lane
One-Stop, Market Place
The Furnishing Place, Market Place
Angellica Flowers, The Arcade