The plan to pedestrianise Church Street in Twickenham on a permanent basis won unanimous approval last night.

Councillors at Richmond Council's Transport and Air Quality Committee gave the green light to the proposal which has overwhelming support from residents.

Of 1,547 people surveyed, 95% said the temporary car-free measures had worked well since their introduction last June.

They were brought in to facilitate social distancing for Covid-19, but enjoyed the added benefit of letting the road's cafes and restaurants extend their alfresco dining arrangements, drawing more customers to the area.

Continued pedestrianisation was backed by 94% of locals and traders with many saying it enhances the atmosphere of the street.

Twickenham Riverside councillor James Chard (Lib Dems) said the plan received unanimous approval when the committee met on Thursday, March 18.

"It's been a really tough year but between this and strong public support for riverside plans, there are genuinely exciting times ahead for Twickenham's town centre," he said.

Issues still to be addressed include making arrangements for disabled parking, servicing of properties, cycling provision and street signage.

Richmond Council said the measures will make Church Street the borough's first 'space to shop' zone.

The committee's chair Cllr Alexander Ehmann said: "I am pleased that we've had such a positive response to the pedestrianisation of Church Street.

"The charm of the road has certainly been enhanced since the car-free zone was implemented, with the reduction in noise and with the provision of space to amble and in a socially distanced manner.

"The overwhelming feedback on pedestrianisation was positive. It's also great to see the change having a wider impact with news that a Gail's Bakery selected Church Street for a new store, in part, because of its people-friendly and car-free environment."