Many visitors come to Gastown — the lively cobblestone neighbourhood in downtown Vancouver — to enjoy its restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and, of course, to see the iconic whistling steam clock.

This summer, they can expect another novelty: throughout July and August, parts of the neighbourhood will be turned into pedestrian-only zones.

While some businesses think that's a good idea, others are not so sure.

Vancouver city council unanimously approved plans to create temporary car-free and ca…