Plans to transform a busy route into a seaside plaza have sparked fears the changes could deter visitors to Herne Bay.

Kent County Council officially unveiled its proposals to ban traffic along part of Central Parade and install a one-way system in the surrounding streets last month.

Supporters of the scheme argue it will encourage greater levels of tourism, as it will “make the whole experience of visiting the area much nicer”.

But Spenser Road resident Michael Taylor believes the changes will prove to be “counter-productive”.

Speaking to KentOnline, he said: “The seafront is where all the people who pour in for the weekend go.

“There are no tourist facilities elsewhere for tourists, so closing part of the road could turn people off. It feels counter-productive.”

Penny and Michael Hills, from Cherry Gardens, also deem the project “a total waste of time and money”.

John Davey, who has lived in the town since he was a child, agrees, arguing the benefits do not “offer enough justification” to alter the town’s layout.

And Magical Glass Creations owner John Fisher, whose business opened its doors on the pier three weeks ago, added: “Anything that restricts the flow of traffic will make a difference.

“It’s going to put people off.

“I do think this will have a negative impact on businesses in the area.”

Drawings show barriers will be erected to prevent traffic travelling through Central Parade between the junctions with Pier Avenue and Station Road.

Motorists will also be prohibited from travelling westbound along part of the route running from the Lane End turning to Dolphin Street.

Meanwhile, stretches of St George’s Terrace, Station Road, Richmond Street and Pier Avenue will be among those made one-way.

Roger Good, of Herne Avenue, is in favour of the council’s vision for the seafront.

“If part of the road is pedestrianised, it would cut traffic down in that area,” he explained.

Documents show a new segregated cycle and walking path will be created in Station Road and existing double yellow lines will be extended almost 90 metres.

A bike ban in Memorial Park will be lifted to allow riders to scoot along its northern path.

Cllr Dan Watkins, a keen advocate of the changes, stated a fortnight ago: “We’re making the whole experience of visiting our town much nicer.

“When you look at what we offer, we’re on a par with Whitstable, Broadstairs and Hythe – but we’re not maximising that.

“I think we will see more tourists coming here once these plans are brought in.”

As part of the £250,000 scheme – called the Kent Active Travel project – KCC is also hoping to turn the centre of Herne Bay between Central Parade and the railway line a 20mph zone.

Papers penned by the authority say: “We are aiming to deliver the scheme in spring 2023.

“We place a high priority on encouraging active travel.

“We want to ensure that walking and cycling are safe, easy, attractive and inclusive.”

A consultation on the proposals closed on Thursday night (October 6).