Rather than trade declining if cars are deterred (Letters, July 14 & 17), people are attracted to shop, walk and eat where there is no motorised intrusion, as in Hove's George Street since pedestrianisation.

More people get to Brighton's London Road shopping centre on foot or by bus than by car. And it is people who buy goods, not cars.

High property prices, rents and rates and the retail diversity of supermarkets may have contributed more to small businesses closing, inducing the ghost town effect, than restricting car traffic.

Transport is the hub but we must be radical about reducing the traffic pollution that causes ill-health and the carbon dioxide emissions that advance climate change.

Changing our habits brings benefits. Using local shops and farmers' markets instead of driving to out-of-town supermarkets ensures neighbourhoods thrive.

Ordering by phone or on-line and having goods delivered reduces the need to travel, while initiatives such as car clubs and "home zones" offer alternatives to car-ownership and enable residents to enjoy a safer and healthier environment.

If the Local Communities Sustainability Bill becomes an Act, with people put at the centre of their services, communities and decision-making, "ghost town" Britain may disappear.

-Felicity Tanous, Brighton