traffic ban on Water Street.

They said the pedestrian-only thoroughfare increased safety and suited the town's historic character.

One visitor commented, "It's very good. We're from New York. It's nice not to worry about getting run over by a car.'' But traders were divided over the move, with several noticing no change in business.

And one voiced anger, saying it hindered deliveries.

The St. George's Corporation on Monday imposed the ban on traffic. It lasts 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.

The Royal Gazette on Wednesday walked the street to gauge initial reaction.

Most visitors appeared to give the scheme the thumbs up.

One exclaimed: "I think it's a great idea. It suits the historic character of St. George's.'' A cruise ship passenger from the Horizon was more moderate in her praise. "I guess it's fine,'' she said.

Several traders applauded the move, noting how quiet the street had become.

A cashier at Sinclair's said: "It's much safer for people to walk out there.

When vehicles were on the road, there could be a lot of abuse, with drivers telling people to get out of the way in no uncertain terms.'' The Book Cellar's salesperson said the street was noticably quieter without traffic.

"It certainly seems nicer, because people can walk more leisurely.'' Asked if there had been a change in business the retailers said they had noticed no difference.

A trader at Taylor's Store said: "It's the same.'' And the cashier at Burrows Lightbourn Ltd. said people were coming through the doors at the normal rate.

Among critics of the scheme was Mrs. Winnifred Jones, manager of the East End Florist.

She said it was "very inconvenient'' for her as it interfered with deliveries.

Instead of being able to park and offload from Water Street, she had to park the delivery truck on York Street.

Also, she said she had to push through crowds of tourists around the bus stop on York Street.

And a delivery truck was forced to park in front of the Carriage Museum to wait the ten minutes until it would be legal for it to drive on Water Street.

Mr. Tiller Ming, the driver, had apparently forgotten the new rules, and ran over the chain of the barricade.

Mr. Sam Wharton, who lobbied for the plan and helped create it, said: "After it's accepted, and we overcome all the negative stuff, I think it's going to be okay.'' WATER STREET WALKERS -- Cyclists and walkers enjoy Water Street, St. George's, in its first week as a pedestrian way.