More details have come to light about changes planned for coach parking in the Cambridgeshire cathedral city of Ely – after East Cambridgeshire District Council (ECDC) responded to CBW’s request for information.
As reported in last week’s issue, a planning application – which closes this Friday (January 22) – is out for consultation for the construction of a residential development on land occupied by the car park on Barton Road.
One of the concerns that raised by the public has been over the loss of car parking. In response, ECDC said the current 192 car spaces will be replaced by 205 if the development goes ahead – the extra spaces coming in part by the loss of the current five coach bays.
ECDC said in a statement to CBW: “To compensate for the loss of the five coach parking bays, one safe, short-term drop off point (15-minute maximum stay) will be established within Barton Road car park. It is anticipated that those from surrounding villages, along with Kings School, will use this, as it is recognised as a vital drop off point. The two existing drop off points in the Gallery, which again have a 15-minute maximum stay, will continue to be accessible.
“In terms of parking provision for coaches, the lay-by on Cambridge Road could be used. Secure sites on the outskirts of the city – recognised as being crucial to the long term success of encouraging coach travel operators to visit Ely – would also be sought.”
The deadline for objections to the planning application – which is numbered 15/01417/F3M and can be viewed on www.eastcambs.gov.uk – closes on January 22.
