The Quay will close so that increased al fresco dining space can be "piloted" this weekend, while Church Square and the Lower Pollet will also be closed to traffic in order to help Town-goers keep a social distance from each other.
The announcements were made at the latest press briefing as the States prepared for the start of phase four today, Saturday 30 May, and the likelihood of increased traffic and footfall as many businesses, including retailers, re-open to customers.
Deputy Gavin St Pier, President of the Policy and Resources Committee, said the decision was part of a trial which lead to further road closures in the future.
"To help pedestrians more easily maintain a good two-metre uncontrolled social distance whilst walking around town, it is necessary to close Town Square and the Lower Pollet with effect from tomorrow," he said yesterday.
"To help the hospitality trade with al fresco seating during the fantastic summer weather, in a pilot this weekend the Quay will be closed from 10am tomorrow [Saturday] and consideration is also going to be given to doing this in the evenings as well and further information will follow on that in due course."
Pictured: Town Square is one of three areas that will be closed to traffic from 10:00 on Saturday until 7:00 on Monday morning.
"We will review how this weekend goes before making any further decisions, but again it’s important that we take the opportunities lockdown has brought us to re-evaluate how we can strike a better balance between traffic management and allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty our island has to offer."
A spokesman for Traffic & Highways Services said arrangements have been put in place for emergency access, should it be needed.
"During the closure, there will be no vehicle access into any of the above streets. A separate update is being sent to Emergency Services in respect of emergency access.
"It should be noted that due to existing works by Guernsey Gas, Fountain Street is currently one-way down, with cars and light vehicles being diverted out of town via Cornet Street and Tower Hill. Large vehicles are being routed via Val des Terres."
Blue Badge Bays and a temporary Taxi Rank will be put in place at South Esplanade (by the Albany) to replace the bays normally available in Town Church Square.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.