WORRIED traders have called for a one-way system to help boost business.

Fears are growing that outlets could shut after a combination of increased parking restrictions on Mold Road, Buckley, and a lack of spaces sent shoppers elsewhere.

Lynn Robinson, who has run Legends Cafe for two years, says unless something is done some traders could be forced to close.

“I have already cut my opening hours. It is hard. It is affecting our business,” she said. “Since the traffic warden has come we have lost trade. Customers have nowhere to park.

“They are only coming in for two minutes for a sandwich and getting a ticket and not coming back. It has taken a lot of customers from us. Business has gone down.

“There is a fear businesses will close. We are asking for help.”

Brian Marshall, who runs Buckley Movies, said he has had customers who have been given a parking ticket while returning rented films.

He said: “Our business comes from quick visits, just popping in. Trade is suffering and parking is something we can do something about.”

Traders are backing a draft Flintshire Council proposal to make one way a section of the road from the junction with Bistre Avenue to the B5127 to create six parking bays but some Buckley town councillors voiced concern about the proposal at a meeting on Tuesday night.

They were worried about potential traffic problems, a lack of a drop-off and pick-up point for the old baths building and the potential for accidents arising from the planned installation of ‘sawtooth’ bus bays

Cllr Richard Jones, who supports the proposals, said customers faced with a parking fine after a quick trip to the shops were unlikely to return to the town.

He said: “This should be a good news story for Buckley. I am behind it.

“Customers should not have to break the law to buy a newspaper. We should be putting things in place to make trade easier.

“There is no parking on Mold Road. This could open a portion of the road for parking. I have spoken to Arriva Bus Wales and they said it was a benefit for them and for the people of Buckley.”

Councillors will now write to Flintshire Council pledging their support for traders in the town and asking that town council concerns be taken into consideration in any future consultation on the proposal.