CARS could be banned from parts of an iconic town centre if proposals go ahead.

Greenwich Council has launched a consultation with residents and businesses to pedestrianise part of Greenwich town centre in preparation for the 2012 Olympics.

The proposals are being distributed in a booklet to around 10,000 homes and businesses and aim to tackle traffic congestion around the World Heritage Site.

Details of the proposals will go on show this weekend and Monday from 10am to 8pm at Devonport House, King William Walk.

They involve closing College Approach and the northern section King William Walk to all traffic except for access to businesses.

The scheme would also see widening of pavements and Greenwich Church Street north of Creek Road would have some vehicle access.

But the council is seeking views on two changes that could be made to cope with the pedestrianisation.

It wants to either make Nelson Road two-way with a T-junction at Greenwich Church Street, or route traffic clockwise via Norman Road, Creek Road, Greenwich Church Street and Greenwich High Road.

Executive committee member of charity The Greenwich Society Ray Smith said: "The society has been lobbying and campaigning for pedestrianisation for years and years.

"Ever since I've lived in Greenwich the town centre has essentially been a big traffic roundabout. Something had to be done.

"Obviously to close the whole town centre isn't on so it's a question of finding the optimum combination of closures."

Leader of Greenwich Council Councillor Chris Roberts said: “We are very keen to get the views of everyone who lives in, works in or visits Greenwich, and I hope as many people as possible will take part in the consultation on the council’s proposals.”

Copies of the consultation booklet can be found at libraries, ordered by calling 020 8921 6114, or downloaded from greenwich.gov.uk/consultations

The deadline for responses is January 15.