CAMPAIGNERS fighting a controversial car parking scheme say it should be scrapped because the economic effects of the plan have not been studied.

The Campaign for a Better Brighton and Hove claims plans to restrict car parking around the Royal Sussex Hospital, in Kemp Town, cannot go ahead until an economic impact assessment is carried out.

Lawyers acting for the pressure group have written to the council saying because east Brighton has been put forward for assisted area status, the effects of any major changes must be studied.

They also claim the planned redevelopment of nearby St James's Street would be against the rules for an assisted area unless a similar survey is conducted.

Brighton and Hove Council denies there is a legal requirement to carry out an economic impact assessment for either scheme.

The car parking plans, which will see residents-only parking in the area around the hospital from next month, have provoked outrage among traders who say they are anti-car and would ruin many businesses.

The proposals have already been postponed twice because of the level of opposition.

Similarly, opponents of the St James's Street scheme claim many people would be unlikely to use shops in the area unless regeneration plans are made more car-friendly.

Government ministers proposed Brighton for assisted area status last year.

The Campaign for a Better Brighton and Hove now claims the council should carry out an appraisal of the two schemes because they are in areas scheduled to get aid.

Chairman Russell Hicks said: "I doubt very much they have conducted a proper assessment.

"If it is anything but on the back of a fag packet I would be very surprised.

"For the council to be doing things that would jeopardise the future of business in Kemp Town is beyond comprehension as far as I am concerned."

A Brighton and Hove Council spokesman said there was no formal need to study the possible impact, adding: "There has not been an economic impact assessment because it is not a legal requirement to carry one out.

"What we have done is a thorough consultation with people in the area, including businesses, and we will continue to do that."

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