WORK to cut traffic in Petersfield town centre got under way on Monday, causing confusion among motorists and traders.

The plans are aimed at creating more space for pedestrians in the town centre so they can follow social-distancing guidelines without stepping in front of cars.

The idea to reduce the number of cars in the town is also seen as good for the environment and will cut pollution and improve air quality – both targets for environmental campaigners.

The Hampshire County Council scheme will see parking banned in The Square and parts of the High Street, and a bus and cycle gate installed to stop cars entering The Square.

Yesterday, motorists were still parking in The Square, but were advised by polite, helpful and apologetic East Hampshire District Council enforcement officers to park elsewhere – or face a fine.

The only indication parking was banned were signs on posts that are part of the railings around The Square.

Cloisters café in The Square provided grandstand viewing for owner Jorge Villalon as cars arrived, parked – or tried to – only to be sent on their way by the enforcement team.

Jorge said: “It’s crazy. From a car, you can’t see the signs – and if people are used to parking there, they will, only to find they have a parking fine.

“The parking bays should be closed off, or a chain put across them, so drivers can’t park in them, then there’s no mistake.”

It also appears other town-centre businesses didn’t know about the scheme.

The plan is now in its third incarnation in as many weeks, with many of the features that appealed to residents abandoned.

Resident Melanie Oxley said she was all for the original plans.

She said: “The businesses I spoke to had not heard anything about the scheme, and there seems to be no mention of making two one-way loops as previously suggested.”

Hampshire County Council deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and environment, Rob Humby, said: “The Covid-safety proposals for Petersfield Square are:

n a replacement of on-street parking with more space for pedestrians,

n a bus/cycle gate at Swan Street/The Square to reduce through traffic,

n new cycle parking in the town centre, and

n signs and traffic diversion around the town centre.

“The scheme is due to be delivered this week.”

East Hampshire District Council has been asked to support the scheme by providing one hour of free parking in the Castle Yard car park.

The council cabinet will decide the matter tomorrow.