Plans to make Hamilton City centre more pedestrian-friendly have been welcomed by the majority of retailers, it was claimed last night.

George Grundmuller, who is CEO and President of the Pheonix Stores, said 75 percent of retailers were happy with proposals to take traffic out of Lower Reid Street and make it more shopper-friendly.

Speaking on behalf of the store, and not in his capacity as chairman of the Bermuda Retail Division of the Chamber of Commerce, he said he believed the plans would inject life back into the Island's flagging sales.

His comments follow claims to the contrary from fellow retailer Roger Davidson, who is President of Smith's.

The Royal Gazette reported yesterday how Mr. Davidson believed the pedestrian measures would block off access and drive shoppers away.

However, yesterday Mr. Grundmuller said to his knowledge most retailers were in favour of the plans.

He said: "The majority think it will be a good idea. We think we should have done this two years' ago.

"Yes, there are two or three who do not like the plans, but about 75 percent are pleased.

"I think removing some of the traffic will give a focal point. There should be al fresco eating and drinking tables, better landscaping and a more relaxed atmosphere.

"People will be able to shop more easily, and I don't think parking is going to be a problem. There are extra spaces for shoppers at City Hall, and once the new XL and ACE buildings come on line it will free up spaces as there will be parking underground.

"I really don't see what the problem is going to be. However, what I will say is that if we are going to do it, it must be done right. We can't afford to get it wrong. But done properly, it could be absolutely marvellous and could be just what Hamilton retailers need.'' Mr. Grundmuller also said the Corporation of Hamilton had also consulted thoroughly with retailers to canvass different opinions.

He said that provided shops in Reid Street were able to get delivery vans in the mornings, and emergency service vehicles had access, there would be no need to worry.

However, Mr. Davison had said at a public meeting on Tuesday held to discuss the City of Hamilton Plan 2001: "You are effectively discouraging private parking -- if that's the case why isn't Bull's Head car parking lot getting another floor on it immediately? "For beleaguered merchants at this time, to expect customers to come in carrying string bags on the bus, that's not on, it isn't going to happen.'' But the corporation's secretary Roger Sherratt said he believed most people were in favour of the traffic reduction.

He said: "What we are doing is reducing traffic and giving the pedestrians the priority.

"The City of Hamilton Plan is the first plan that has ever addressed the traffic problems in the city.

"We have had a number of discussions with the merchants on Lower Reid Street and have had a lot of consultation. That will continue. And we have had an expert on urban improvement schemes come from abroad.

"We are not going to impose anything on anyone.

"There have been one or two objectors, but most people think it is a good idea.

"What the plan aims to do is try to reduce the amount of traffic flowing into the shopping area by diverting it to other areas.'' Mr. Sherratt said additional short-stay parking spaces for shoppers had been provided at Number 1 and Number 5 shed, as well as at City Hall. And he said with Bull's Head car park being full every day, it proves that people are prepared to walk a short distance to shop or work.