The new two-way Tontine Street traffic flow will come into force next week.

Work to rearrange the layout of the carriageway with new parking bays, loading bays and bus stops has been completed, and the new rules start on Monday.

The new access rules apply to buses, bicycles and taxis after it was previously only one way heading away from the harbour.

Traders in the road have voiced their concerns that the plans will blight businesses.

Bosses and residents voiced their opposition, with a petition raising more than 200 signatures against the plans, which were eventually approved last September.

The work started in November as part of a scheme to improve access to Tontine Street and the harbour area for public transport.

It came as part of a wider scheme which also saw Tram Road become two-way.

A statement from Kent Highways this week said: “It is hoped the changes will support the wider regeneration objectives for Folkestone.

“The scheme is intended to support access to the Creative Quarter and the wider heritage quarter.

“The scheme will also support the use and enjoyment of other new projects in the area, including the harbour arm redevelopment, Payers Park and the proposed skate park on the redeveloped former bingo hall site at the northern end of Tontine Street.”

But businesses have warned the loss of parking, added congestion due to the increase in number of buses and less loading space would have a negative impact on their livelihoods.

Kent County Council cabinet member for transport Matthew Balfour said: “The road network as it was, was geared towards a sector of the economy that no longer exists in the town, namely ferry and freight traffic.

“The work that has been carried out is a major improvement to bus services and will open up opportunities for people to travel to and from Tontine Street and the harbour for work and leisure.”

Amendments to the scheme when it was finally approved saw further changes to the proposed new bus stop outside the Curry Garden restaurant, creating an 18 metres of space.

Plans were also changed meaning six parking spaces would be lost in the street, rather than the 11 originally proposed.