Parking will be banned on Wisbech Market Place if a new traffic management scheme gets green-light - you can have your say now

Vehicles are set to be banned from Wisbech Market Place in a bold move by the town council aimed at enhancing the area for both traders and the community.

For a number of months Wisbech Town Council has been working behind the scenes to come up with an enhancement scheme for this key area to add vitality and vibrancy to the town.

The aim is to provide social, environmental and economic benefits for those who live, work or visit Wisbech.

A statement issued by the town council explains the thinking behind the proposals, which are now open for public consultation.

It says: "In terms of the Market Place itself, the council proposes to undertake works to improve its appearance and functionality. Detailed proposals are still being developed but will include the removal of car parking (at all times) from the site.

"As well as enhancing the central area, Wisbech Town Council is seeking to deliver benefits to the wider Market Place area. This involves making changes to the current traffic management arrangements in this part of the town."

Part of that process will see most of the Market Place pedestrianised for most of each day of the week. Only access into High Street via Hill Street will remain.

The statement says: "This would mean that no motorised vehicles would be able to travel within the 'pedestrianised' area between the hours of 7am am and 4pm on all days of the week.

A"rrangements would be made to provide access for delivery vehicles between the hours of 7am and 10am daily. Permanent access would be maintained at all times for pedestrians and cyclists.

"The prohibition of vehicles would be controlled by the installation of gates at Church Terrace (in the vicinity of the public house), Market Street and at the junction of Market Place/High Street. Little Church Street would also be included within the 'pedestrianised'area.

"Furthermore, as a means of attempting to address some of the on-street parking issues within the town centre, the proposed traffic management arrangements include the installation of parking restrictions (double-yellow lines) along Hill Street and High Street. Not only would the existing four disabled parking bays on the western side of the Market Place be retained under the proposal, but a number of additional bays would be created in the vicinity of the Empire Theatre (and possibly other locations)."

The statement concludes: "Wisbech Town Council is keen to hear the views of the public and town centre traders on the proposed traffic management changes. If you wish to inform the council of your views on this scheme of traffic management, please send them in writing, by e-mail to info@wisbechtowncouncil.org.uk or by letter to Wisbech Town Council, 1 North Brink, Wisbech, PE13 1JR."

The closing date for the council’s receipt of representations is Friday 8 November 2019.