Cheltenham MP Alex Chalk has waded into the controversy over the traffic ban at the town's Boots Corner.

The MP says the scheme was a mistake and he is calling for the closure to be reversed.

The main route through the town was closed to all but buses, taxis and pedestrians earlier this year as part of an experiment.

But it has divided the town with many businesses saying it is hitting trade while the town's Chamber of Commerce supports the experiment and the introduction of new street furniture. The Chamber says the information gathered will help provide a more permanent solution.

But Alex Chalk MP said he had never supported the closure of Boots Corner, it is a serious mistake and should be reversed before more damage is done.

He said: "Every day I am deluged with complaints about the misery it is causing. Nurses struggle to get across town to the hospital or GP's surgeries. Mums have to abandon after school classes."

He also claimed diversions were forcing traffic through residential roads and school drop offs had become more dangerous.

"This has been a mistake. The council should stop throwing good money after bad," said the MP.

Mr Chalk has launched a petition on his Facebook page calling for the Boots Corner scheme to be reversed.