ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners have backed proposals to pedestrianise Wallingford town centre, claiming the plans hold the key to its “revitalisation”.

Action group Sustainable Wallingford said the town must support the banning of cars in Market Place so it is not left in the wake of Didcot, Henley, Oxford and Reading – all of which have pedestrian-only zones.

South Oxfordshire District Council drew up the proposals to try to boost the vibrancy and popularity of the market town.

The idea is to improve the air quality and make it a more pleasant shopping destination.

Sue Roberts, chairman of Sustainable Wallingford Travel Group, said people enjoyed ambling about window shopping in a clean, traffic-free area.

She said: “Revitalisation of Wallingford depends upon improving and increasing pedestrian areas.

“This has been repeatedly suggested in two major consultants’ reports and two recent consultations of our townsfolk and business people, carried out by the district and town councils.

“Come on Wallingford, don’t be left behind in creating an attractive, traffic-free town centre. We are reinventing ourselves as a market town with new regular markets, swap shops, and always interesting shops.

“If only it were all made safer for pedestrians.”

Earlier this month, the plan came under fire from traders who feared the move would be unpopular with shoppers wanting to reach town centre shops easily. Wallingford mayor Alec Hayton was also against the move.

Councillors are currently in discussions with Oxfordshire County Council to see if the plan is workable.

District councillor Rodney Mann, cabinet member for economic development, said: “There’s a lot of work to be done as to whether it’s feasible or practical. No one ever sees a pedestrian scheme that doesn’t cause strong views. They can bring benefits if they are right.

“What we want is more people using the town centre and a busy, more vibrant centre.

“That really only works if there is an increased footfall in the main shopping area.”

wallingford@oxfordmail.co.uk