Wedco is pedestrianising a section of road in the Royal Naval Dockyard outside its iconic clocktower in a move to make the area more attractive.

A spokesman said that on August 27, the road leading from the fountain outside of the Clocktower Mall to Diamonds International will be closed to traffic.

Instead vehicles will be diverted along Apprentice Lane and Smithery Lane.

The change will continue until the end of the year, at which time Wedco will consider making the move permanent.

Joanna Cranfield, business development manager at Wedco, said: “Dockyard is becoming busier with more people and more traffic, more cars, more buses, more minibuses and we have to be aware of people’s safety.

“We also wanted to create a more leisurely and family friendly feel.

“This is a pilot project for the remainder of the year. After that we will have further discussions with our stakeholders and if there are no major hurdles it could be made permanent.”

She added: ”If it becomes permanent we will look to landscape the area and add attractions, such as giant games and sitting areas which will create a great vibe in Dockyard.”

Bus stops and shuttle trains will also be moved from the closed section of road to Camber Road, and a speed bump will be installed opposite Dockyard Canvas.