A CAMPAIGNER has called on council chiefs to back plans to make pavements wider in a town centre.

Chris Smith wants East Sussex County Council to widen walking areas in Lewes High Street and School Hill.

The authority is looking into a scheme to make the town centre more pedestrian and cycle friendly, and promote safe shopping during the coronavirus crisis.

But it has said it will look to balance the needs of businesses trying to bounce back from lockdown, and the need for social distancing and safer streets.

Mr Smith runs the Travel Log Lewes website and backs sustainable transport options.

He said: “We have some great enterprising traders in Lewes like Harveys and Bills, but sadly some in the High Street seem to think that things can go on as they always were.

“This has led to a decline in trade in the High Street.

“Widening the pavements, even for a short time, would be a real boost to the High Street. We need radical action to bring it back to life.”

Previously The Argus reported on Lewes Town Council’s motion on pavements and cycle lanes after graffiti appeared on the roads.

An impromptu “do it yourself” cycle lane was made at the junction of Station Street and Fisher Street, with a cycle stencil demanding “more cycle lanes”.

Cllr Philip Daniel said he wanted better cycling options, but said it is important to recognise the needs of businesses.