Haworth's famously cobbled Main Street could be closed off to traffic to boost trade in the tourist hotspot.

The suggestion was just one of those made at a consultation meeting held last week to resolve traffic problems in the village.

Independent traffic consultant Richard Armitage suggested that by reducing the number of visitors, particularly those coming by car, more money could be spent in Haworth.

He said: "A traffic plan has got to be about making it easier to get to Haworth without the village becoming more choked and an unpleasant place to be."

Figures from across the country showed that overseas visitors or those arriving by public transport spent more money. Some car-based visitors even took money out of the local economy.

Main Street, which has a 20mph speed limit, is currently access only and is yellow-lined. But it could benefit the village to free it from traffic either all day or for long periods.

Tourism group the Bront Country Partnership (BCP) called the meeting to adopt the green travel plan.

BCP, working with Haworth Village Trust and Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council, will take the project forward.

BCP treasurer Graham Mitchell, who chaired the meeting, said: "Visitors come by train, bus or touring bus but overwhelmingly by car. Haworth traders rely on their existence.

"But Haworth is also a living residence for about 3,000 people. These also generate traffic and parking."

Members of the BCP and other key groups from the village were invited to the meeting.

They identified a number of transport-associated problems in Haworth.

Those included a lack of coach parking or drop-off points, clamping, poor signs, problems around Haworth Primary School and no park-and-ride facilities.

However, a £10,000 grant by the developers of the new surgery was more than doubled by Bradford Council to provide extra spots and coach spaces in Bront Village car park. The entrance road was also widened.

Mr Armitage said the plan -- which would take on board the comments made -- would have to benefit businesses, staff, residents and the environment, as well as ensuring a flow of visitors.

He added: "To be successful this will require absolutely everyone to make small changes.

"Those making publicity will have to change their publicity."

Colin Clayton, from Bradford Council's car park division, said changes in enforcement would ensure money would be pumped back into the village.

The district's 12 traffic wardens would by replaced by 40 council officers. Solar-powered pay and display meters could also be installed for on-street parking.