Search for free car park deeds

They claim the Chapel Street car park was left to local residents on the condition that no fees would be introduced.

Swindon Council is looking at bringing in charges because motorists are abusing it by leaving vehicles there all day.

But traders say they will be doomed if people are forced to pay as it will be another reason not to shop in the area.

They are now searching for a document showing who left the land to prove that charges cannot be introduced.

In the meantime, as part of a protest, shopkeepers could refuse to pay their business rates.

Geri Walker, of the Sunflower Caf in Cricklade Road said: "All the traders in Gorse Hill know it was left privately," she said. "There is definitely something in it and by stirring it up we can scupper the plans."

Even if there is an agreement, shopkeepers fear that because the council has maintained the car park for so long they may try to steamroll charges in.

"They have to realise our livelihoods are at stake," said Mrs Walker.

The local authority said short-term parking for shoppers was being restricted by selfish motorists so was looking at a range of options to stop it.

And if fee paying is introduced, Coun Maurice Fanning (Lab), who represents the area, said he would press for the first two hours to be free.

Car parking fears were discussed at a meeting of traders last month. It was the first time in 15 years they had held a formal meeting to discuss problems in the area.

Traffic congestion in Cricklade Road and the monopoly Tesco has in the area were also discussed.

Calls are now being made for a plan to be drawn up to boost the shopping area.

Questions and comments about how improvements can be made have been forwarded to north Swindon MP Michael Wills.

Further talks between traders, Swindon Council and planners are due to be held later this year so that an action plan can be drawn up.

Swindon Council said it was not aware of an historic agreement but was looking into the claim.

Ben Payne