Residents call for support over car park closure plans

Residents are urging Wiltshire Council to review local parking provision ahead of the planned closure of Lowbourne Car Park.

Union Street and Lowbourne residents say many use the car park, and its closure will leave them unable to park near their homes, creating a ‘ripple effect’ in the area.

Wiltshire Council, which owns the car park, confirmed it will close when the former library site is developed for flats for older people. Residents are calling on the council to consider keeping part of the car park available.

Rebecca Mitchener, who has lived on Union Street for 12 years, said, “Lowbourne Car Park is essential to many people living here and as I rely on it to park safely near my home, I want to do whatever is possible to save at least part of it. Not having somewhere to park is not a reasonable living standard in 2026. As neighbours we have grouped together but we need whatever support we can get.”

Some residents use the adjacent Union Street Car Park, but they say it is not big enough for all cars. They are urging MP Brian Mathew to amplify the issue.

“There are at least 40 residences and four businesses in Union Street without parking,” Rebecca added. “Union Street car park has 23 spaces, the on-street bays have about 14 depending on vehicle size.”

Resident Alison Howell said, “There just simply won’t be enough parking here for residents on Union Street. It is a concern if we are coming back late at night and we have got to park further away from our homes and then obviously walk through the streets to get home. What we would like to see the council do is keep a portion of the car park open for residents.”

In 2022, the Cabinet of the previous administration resolved that the car park would be declared surplus following officer recommendation.

Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, Streetscene and Flooding, said, “Consultation on this was undertaken in line with the neighbourhood plan regulations, as referenced in the Examiner’s report. The neighbourhood plan was developed by Melksham Town Council and Melksham Without Parish Council following extensive local consultation, including public engagement with residents, businesses and statutory consultees, before being submitted to the council for further consultation, examination and referendum.

“No planning application has yet been submitted, but when the car park closes, existing permit holders will be able to purchase permits in alternative council car parks in Melksham.

“There are currently 14 season ticket holders at Lowbourne Car Park and the permits are not categorised as residents’ permits.”