Seine bank is pedestrianised

PARIS city authorities have pressed ahead with plans to close the banks of the Seine in central Paris to traffic.

From today, a 2.5km stretch of the Left Bank expressway by the Invalides and Musée d'Orsay will be accessible only to pedestrians and cyclists.

Paris mayor Bertrand Delanoë said it was an "aberration" that one of the most scenic stretches in the city should be choked with traffic.

The mairie estimates that journey times will be increased by six minutes. Opposition councillors say it will create extra traffic jams, noise and pollution.

The plan was given the go-ahead from the government after being blocked by the previous one. The freed-up voies sur berge will eventually be turned into an area dedicated to sport, culture and nature.

Car traffic in Paris has fallen by a quarter in 10 years, according to official figures.