County council officers have been asked to look again at the controversial scheme to improve the safety of pedestrians in Bognor's town centre.

Some traders say they are losing out because of an experimental traffic free precinct which has been introduced in the High Street.

The order was given by West Sussex Cabinet member Harold Hall after polls showed conflicting results.

Some traders claim the scheme has hit them badly while town councillors are concerned that buses can still travel through the pedestrian areas.

Now Councillor Hall has asked for a new report before a decision is taken on whether to make the scheme permanent.

He said: "I have asked council officers to examine what can be done to meet these concerns before any decision is taken on the way forward."

The scheme is being tested out as part of a bid to bring new economic growth to Bognor and to reduce accidents and pollution.

Coun Hall says an independent MORI survey conducted in the town showed that the majority of people visiting the town centre liked it.

But Chamber of Commerce chairman Christina Miller said a survey carried out by her organisation had drawn mixed results with some traders at the east of the High Street claiming they had suffered.

She added: "Whenever a new scheme is introduced there are almost inevitably teething problems and some will benefit more than others."

Mrs Miller said the chamber welcomed improved safety and reduced pollution from the scheme but she added: "Our objective is to see a scheme introduced which will bring the maximum benefits to traders and the public."