TRADERS in a popular shopping area fear plans for a new bus lane will have a devastating effect on business.

Business owners in Chingford Mount Road, Chingford, say the proposals for a 50 metre lane between Albert Avenue and Hall Lane will increase congestion and put off drivers, resulting in a decline in passing trade.

The traders launched a campaign against the plans after being notified by Waltham Forest Council.

A petition containing 150 signatures has been sent to the council and shops along the row are displaying 'No to Bus Lane' posters.

Cemal Arkut, 52, who has run the Suitability dry cleaning store for more than 10 years, said: “It will definitely affect trade.

“There is already a lack of parking spaces, which has affected businesses and this will get worse.

“It is going to make people take a different route and that will reduce the passing trade.

“There are already 10 shops on this road that have closed because of the recession.

“We are trying to make the area more attractive to keep the shops alive, but this will force us out of business.”

The proposals are for the bus lane to operate Monday to Friday between 4pm and 7pm and from 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

There would also be increased restrictions on parking and loading in the area if the proposals were given the green light.

Residents have also raised objections to the plans.

Richard Durkin, 79, of Normanshire Grove, said the plans would increase congestion on the already busy route.

“It has been difficult enough for a long time for traffic to turn out of this road,” he said. “But this will make it worse.

“If the bus lane is put in it will be harder for cars to get out and the congestion will get worse.

“I use the buses myself and I don't think the lane will make that much of a difference to the buses.”

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