A new project has been launched by Cotswold District Council which aims to make improvements to car parking in Cirencester.

In an effort to better coordinate its approach to meeting future demand, the council has created a board which brings together senior officers to consider the impact of parking on Cirencester, taking account of both approved and anticipated future developments.

The Project Board will be led by the cabinet Members responsible for parking, legal and property/development management and forward planning services  Chris Hancock, Sue Jepson, and Nick Parsons respectively. It will also include Mark Harris, the mayor of Cirencester and district Councillor for Cirencester’s Abbey Ward.

The board members are aiming to engage with key local stakeholders,including relevant ward members, Cirencester Town Council, Cirencester Chamber of Commerce and residents’ associations

They hope this will help them gain a comprehensive understanding of current parking issues, prior to reviewing anticipated future parking demand and considering options for meeting that demand.

The Chairman of the  Project Board, Cllr Hancock, said: “At Cotswold District Council, we recognise that residential and commercial growth will have a significant impact on demand for town centre parking, particularly in Cirencester, where there is already pressure on parking provision.

“Whilst we have no statutory obligation to provide parking - and are under no obligation to deliver additional parking as part of the emerging Local Plan - we, nevertheless, understand the importance of ensuring that the parking needs of businesses, workers, shoppers, tourists and residents are managed effectively, and we believe that the project route is the best way to tackle this issue.”

Cllr Harris, said:  “I am pleased to be involved in this exciting project which provides a real opportunity to improve parking provision in and around the town in a cooperative, professional and comprehensive manner.”