A CONTROVERSIAL road scheme will remain in place until the end of summer, it has been confirmed.

A number of roads around Bedford Place - including Bedford Place itself - will remain closed to traffic to make way for more outdoor seating in a bid to support local businesses.

It comes as the trial was first launched in August last year.

Civic chiefs have now confirmed the road closures will remain in place until the end of summer when a final decision on the scheme is expected to be taken.

Southampton City Council said the move will support businesses.

But some shop owners, who previously raised concerns, said the decision to expand the trial is “disappointing”.

As previously reported, a number of temporary road closures are in place along Bedford Place from Henstead Road to Carlton Place; along Carlton Place from Bedford Place to Southampton Street; and along Lower Banister Street from Carlton Place to opposite the Popworld establishment.

City leaders said the move aims to make Bedford Place a “unique destination”.

Giles Semper, executive director at Go Southampton, said: “It is especially welcome given that leisure and hospitality businesses can only offer outdoor dining when they reopen on April 12.”

But other shop owners said they fear for the future of their businesses.

Charlie Plant, owner of Charlie Plant hairdresser, said: “There’s a lot less passing trade here now because people can’t be bothered to get down here. Businesses are going to close and the council don’t care. They are going to make it permanent whether we like it or not.”

Angela Everett, owner of Trevor Mitchell hairdresser, added: “They are just making it more and more difficult to access the shops. It’s terrible. I am worried about surviving very much. We are all struggling. They should open it up initially so that people come back to Bedford Place just to give us a chance to survive.”

Both Ms Everett and Mr Plant called for alternatives including the reopening of Bedford Place or a one-way system.

Cllr Dan Fitzhenry, leader of the opposition, said Bedford Place should be reopened.

The city council said it will be engaging with the local community and will continue to welcome feedback.

In a statement the authority said: “We understand the trial pedestrianisation of the Bedford Place area has generated a range of views and that some concerns have been raised about the impact on business.

"We need to acknowledge the significant role that Covid-19 itself has had to play. As we look ahead to the summer.

"We have an opportunity to trial the scheme over a longer period of time.

"We can then get a full understanding of how the measures work before reaching a final decision with consideration of a range of future options and next steps as proposed by the community.”

Cllr Steve Leggett, cabinet member for green city and place, said: “Bedford Place businesses are an important part of our economy and we are committed to supporting their recovery and to seeing Bedford Place become once again a vibrant, thriving area .”