Chippenham free parking plans vote splits residents

At a recent meeting, Chippenham town councillors voted unanimously to reject a motion on the principal of providing subsidised free parking in the town’s Wiltshire Council owned car parks.

The plans, put forward by Cllrs Nic Puntis and Robert Giles, would have been funded by a significant increase in council tax, equivalent to £40.28 for an average Band D household.

Town councillors say they received a “deluge” of messages from residents ahead of the decision, which were overwhelmingly against the proposal.

Following the meeting, multiple councillors revealed they were glad a decision that represented the wishes of most residents had been reached.

Cllr Declan Baseley said: “I’m pleased our council recognised how unfair it is to ask those who walk, wheel, cycle, or take public transport into town to subsidise motorists.”

READ MORE: Chippenham free parking plans rejected by councillors

Cllr David Poole said the plans were too costly (Image: Cllr David Poole) Cllr David Poole added: “The fact is this would have cost the taxpayers of Chippenham £650,000 per year, and increased the Precept by 20 per cent, it’s a cost we can’t justify.”

Many social media users and Gazette and Herald readers were quick to share their joy that the proposed council tax rise had been scrapped.

Martin Alvis said: “Great, I was very opposed to the proposed increase in council tax.”

Another Gazette reader added: “Thank you Chippenham councillors. This was a terrible idea from the off.”

But other people remain concerned about footfall in the town centre and believe that finding a way to lower parking charges could help reinvigorate the area.

Natasha Giddings said: “What about disabled people who have no choice but to drive and park?

“The free hour parking years back was a godsend for people just popping into town, now barely anyone bothers as parking is expensive.”

The Borough Parade car park (Image: Newsquest) Graham Knight added: “It might seem unfair to use council tax to subsidise parking but I’m sure we all pay the tax for services we don’t actually use, but that’s life.

“Unfortunately, when there are no shops left in Chippenham, and it is fast heading that way, there won’t be a lot of point walking, wheeling, cycling or taking public transport into the town.

“This particular idea may not be the answer, but something needs to be done to reduce the cost of parking in the town centre before it is too late to save it.”