A new consultation into the future of safe zones in four Ceredigion towns has been launched this week.

Under current safe zone plans, implemented by Ceredigion County Council in July, cars are banned from town centres in Aberystwyth, Aberaeron, New Quay and Cardigan between the hours of 11am and 6pm each day to create more space for pedestrians, allowing for greater social distancing.

But the council has confirmed that the safe zone scheme will not operate during the firebreak 17-day lockdown that came into force from 6pm on Friday.

A further announcement on the scheme will be made before the lockdown ends, council officials have confirmed.

On Monday, an online consultation was launched into the scheme.

A council spokesperson said: “The views of the businesses, residents and visitors to these town centres are important to us. 

“They will help us identify and collect the views of what people would like and help to inform and shape the future of our town centres.”

To share your views on the scheme, go to the council’s consultations page at www.ceredigion.gov.uk/consultations or call 01545 570881. The survey opened on 26 October and is open until 21 December.

On the current status of the safe zone scheme during lockdown, Ceredigion council said: “Following the announcement by First Minister Mark Drakeford that introduced a firebreak across Wales, Ceredigion County Council will not be closing the roads daily within the safe zones between 6pm on Friday, 23 October and 11am on 9 November.

“Some aspects will remain where changes are in place 24/7 or temporary parking restrictions apply. Council-owned public car parks will remain free during this period for residents and visitors alike.

“Further minor amendments have come into effect this week.

“In Aberaeron, on-street parking will return between Cadwgan Place and Market Street junction.

“In Aberystwyth, there is controlled Blue Badge-holder access to Eastgate from Portland Street, as well as controlled access to Chalybeate Street from Terrace Road.

“In Cardigan, there will be controlled Blue Badge-holder access along High Street.

“Safe zones are reviewed fortnightly in line with the infection rate and available evidence.

“A further announcement will be made before 9 November.”