North Somerset Council is considering creating character areas in Weston-super-Mare similar to Brighton’s lanes, but the news has sparked debate on the Mercury’s Facebook page.

Orchard Street and Meadow Street have been highlighted as areas which could be ‘revamped’ to create a space for both pedestrians and cars, similar to Princess Royal Square.

Many people took to Facebook to voice their opinions about the plans, and there were mixed reactions.

Ella Sayce said: “Instead of spending thousands on digging up a road, the council needs to help small businesses grow.

“Not everyone can get a small business loan, so many shops in the town are dormant and empty.

“The council should also help businesses alter the outside appearance of shops and advertise these shops more. There are plenty of amazing small businesses down Meadow Street which 30 per cent of Weston probably do not know about.”

A growing concern from Mercury readers was parking in the area, which Dorothy Wade referred to as a ‘nightmare’.

Cathy Smith said it was ‘laughable’ to compare Weston to Brighton while Lee Bodger said pedestrianising the area would be ‘great’.

Mr Bodger said: “This area has been left to rot for years and the greed with parking meters has made it worse. Pedestrianising the whole lot would be great but the council has sold off the nearest biggest car park for more housing, which is not going to help.”

Andrew Varney thought the plans would have a positive impact on Weston.

He said: “I have always thought Meadow Street is the most character-filled street in the town centre and would benefit greatly from pedestrianisation.”

Business owners also weighed in on the discussion.

Holly Law from Replenish Weston, which opened last week, said: “As someone who has just opened a shop in one of the streets, I rather like the idea. Money spent encouraging people walking down the high street and seafront to come and explore the fabulous businesses would be great.”

Join the conversation by searching Weston, Worle & Somerset Mercury on Facebook or by following @WSMercury on Twitter.