Traffic marshals put in place on Norwich's Exchange Street

It comes after police said they would not remove those who attempt to block the road, after Lucy Hall, 66, stopped vehicles on the street at the start of the month.

Marshals have been patrolling the road since Monday, November 21, with an orange plastic barrier erected behind them.

It is thought that the marshals will not be permitted to issue fines, however they will redirect traffic away from the street.

They will be on patrol periodically over the coming weeks.

Martin Wilby, cabinet member for highways at Norfolk County Council, said: “We have seen an increase in non-compliance in the pedestrian zone on Exchange Street in recent weeks.

Martin Wilby, cabinet member for highways (Image: Archant)

"As a result, we have installed a number of temporary signs on St Giles Street and Bethel Street to ensure that drivers are fully aware of the restriction.

"Traffic marshals will be operating in the area over the coming weeks to remind motorists of the restrictions and to prevent motorised vehicles travelling along Exchange Street.

"Our next step will be to install additional permanent signage to further highlight the restrictions, which we hope to have in place before the end of the year.

“The changes to Exchange Street were first introduced in the summer of 2020.

"This is an area dominated by people walking around the city, making it an unsuitable route for through traffic.

"The scheme makes it safer and easier to get around on foot or by bike, supports outdoor hospitality and the local economy, and improves air quality.

"The feedback we have received has been broadly supportive and people are keen to see the pedestrian zone free of traffic.”

Blue light services and vehicles needed for essential works, such as utility repairs will still be able to use the road.