SHOPKEEPERS in Barton, who are fed up with having their windows smashed, are collecting signatures to change planning rules.
Barton Street was given conservation status six years ago, which limits what shopkeepers can do to their buildings.
It means that traders cannot install a sliding security shutter at the front of their store, leaving them only the option of fitting one behind their glass windows.
Numerous shops have reported their windows being smashed as a result and now a petition has been started in a bid to change the council's legislation in order to protect businesses from vandalism.
Councillor Usman Bhaimia (L, Barton and Tredworth) said: "The windows have been broken more than three times at some shops.
"The shopkeepers are upset due to the stupid policy of conservation and the council is not allowing them to put grilles outside the glass. Some shops have grilles inside but wood is not protected and glass is broken."
Saqib Rasul, who owns the Vauxhall Mart in Barton Street, said: "This conservation status is ridiculous, it just creates so many problems for businesses.
"There was a petition a couple of years ago when all 28 businesses in the conservation area voted to have the status removed, but the council didn't listen."
Councillor Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council and cabinet member for regeneration, said: "The design of shop fronts requires careful thought and consideration, in order to ensure that a positive contribution is made, not only to the existing building, but also to the wider street scene.
"External alterations in the form of external grilles require planning permission and pre-application advice can be given by the city council if required."
