BANNING buses from a town centre seems to be winning support from businesses.

A pilot pedestrianisation scheme has been introduced, with buses barred from the area of the Corporation and Newport Road junction, Middlesbrough, for six months.

Barbara Wren, town centre manager, said: "I am pleased the scheme seems to be gaining support from retailers.

"The Town Centre Company sees the importance of working with all retailers concerned, as the scheme is assessed.

"Our main concern is that the whole town benefits from the scheme in the short term, and possibly on a permanent basis.''