Consultation over parking in Moreton town centre

A Gloucestershire County Council-run survey carried out last year found residents and firms were concerned about the impact of congestion in the High Street on businesses as well as tourist sites in the town.

Following the results of the survey the authority has been working alongside Moreton Town Council and businesses in the area to put together plans to improve parking and access to the town centre.

Last year’s survey also found the Old Market Way car park is frequently under-used while people working in the town centre wanted more dedicated parking spaces.

Changes proposed include introducing time restrictions and/or a pay and display system along with a permit scheme making it easier for residents to park near their homes.

The county council’s cabinet member for highways and flood Cllr Vernon Smith said it was important residents and businesses in Moreton had their say on the plans so an outcome satisfactory to all could be reached.

“We have listened to the people of Moreton and worked with town council to come up with some suggested improvements,” he said.

“Now we’d like to hear what people think about these ideas so would encourage everyone to come along to one of our drop in events this week to give us their feedback.

“People can also go online to find out more and have their say.”

Ward member on the council for Moreton Cllr Nigel Moor said: “As parking controls in the town centre are likely to have a wider effect, we want to hear from local people to decide if changes should be considered.”

If a parking permit scheme is introduced following the consultation residents affected would be required to pay for a permit and buy vouchers to allow visitors to park near their homes.

Drop-in consultation events will be held at the Moreton Area Centre in the High Street from 11am until 4pm tomorrow, Wednesday, and from 3pm until 7pm on Tuesday, July 21.

The consultation is also available at www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/parking.