THE most recent plans to introduce seasonal car park spaces into the transformed Cleethorpes Market Place are set to go ahead.
North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet met tonight (Wednesday 19 Sept) to further discuss the scheme, after the new plans were called-in – a process by which elected members can trigger a re-look at Cabinet decisions.
At a previous Cabinet meeting the Leader, Cllr Oliver Freeston, who has portfolio responsibilities for regeneration, had full support for the changes to the original scheme for the Market Place. These changes, shaped by informal consultation, were:
- The introduction of up to 12 seasonal parking bays that will provide 30 minutes maximum free no-return parking within Market Place. This is subject to statutory consultation on new Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) and Road Safety Audits of the proposed design.
- Use of Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) to provide flexibility between open and closed spaces on a seasonal basis;
- The introduction of 1-hour free no-return parking at St Peter’s Avenue and The Old Vic car parks all year round for a two-year trial period.
The call-in had referred to the lack of another formal public consultation and whether this should be done before the changes were further looked at and accepted. It also cited traffic safety concerns.
However, at tonight’s meeting, it was decided that – after fully considering the call-in – the planned changes would go ahead. Although Cllr Freeston did commit to a review 12 months after the scheme is complete, to assess if the car parking is working as hoped. He also highlighted that there would be further consultation as part of the TRO and that would deal with some of the traffic concerns raised. Both those suggestions were approved by Cabinet.
Following the meeting Cllr Freeston said: “I would like to make it clear that I have spent a lot of time in and around Market Place and have spoken to businesses and residents all of which share the same concerns about parking.
“These changes address those concerns, and of course are seasonal so when we have events or visitors here in the summer, we can ensure the new Market Place is enjoyed by pedestrians. This is the very best decision for everyone, and I now look forward to seeing work progress,” he added.
The Market Place scheme, supported by Government funding, started on site in May this year. The aim is to help bring more visitors and local people to the area to shop and spend time, supporting local businesses, and with a focus on outdoor events and dining.
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