TRADERS and residents have appealed to ministers over the controversial revamp of the Grassmarket, amid claims the city council "steamrollered" their objections.

They say people will be injured by walking into a row of bollards to be placed outside pubs, while restrictions on parking and access will hit local businesses.

Work is due to start on a £6 million project to make the historic street more pedestrian friendly in September. The plans were approved by city councillors last month, and are now awaiting Scottish Executive backing.

But the Old Town Community Council has written to ministers saying they have "serious concerns" with the plans. Their stance is being supported by the Old Town Association, as well as local shops, restaurants and pubs.

Community council chairman Bill Cowens said residents and traders felt their voices had been "ignored" in the consultation. He is particularly concerned about plans for around 70 granite bollards to divide the pedestrian area from the roadway.

"The bollards are a serious health and safety risk," said Mr Cowens. "There are already quite a number of recorded incidents of people being injured by walking into them on the High Street.

"The proposed 10.30am closure for service vehicles is wholly inadequate given that this is the only access to a large number of pub and catering outlets.

"And the loss of over 100 after-hours spaces will seriously impact the night-time economy."

He also believes the wider pavements and lack of parking will encourage more heavy drinking.

"We love the idea of a cafe culture, but this is Scotland. It's never going to mean anything but pubs," he said.

Robert Gibson, owner of the Mussel and Steak restaurant, said: "It doesn't seem to matter how many local people are up against it. I'm worried this is changing the character of the area.

"We already have a problem with too many hen and stag parties down here, and this is going to increase if people can't park."

Matt Dale, of Mr Wood's Fossils, said many people were generally in favour of the redevelopment, but felt some concerns had not been addressed.

He said: "The lack of parking is obviously going to have an effect on businesses. It can be very awkward with deliveries as it is.

"The other main concern is the upheaval over the next 18 months. With a lot of small independent businesses, a prolonged drop in turnover can be very damaging, and could force some to close."

Charles Dundas, new Lib Dem councillor in the city centre ward, said he fully supported the Old Town Community Council and local traders.

He said: "This is an example of the way planning has to change. We have seen plans are steamrollered through without proper public consultation with those who live and work in the area.

"The bollards are a big concern for everyone. People don't like the way they look.

"The problem is it's got to this stage without the public's views being listened to or acted on."

A spokeswoman for the city council said it had carried out a full public consultation. The council has modified plans after receiving more than 50 objections earlier this year. The authority agreed to repair cobbles instead of replacing them with granite slabs, and save some of the parking spaces.