Pedestrianising The Parade – Letter from David Sherratt

Sirs,

Cllr Stewart Dobson mentions in his letter concerning the loss of free parking in the High Street that the Town Council has discussed pedestrianising The Parade. One has to hope that this is not correct.

Although it would be an attractive prospect, such an operation will kill off Rainbows the popular hardware shop,

The Bear, and The Lamb all of whom need access from the street for deliveries.

Cllr Dobson reports that the Council staff had reported that the restaurants would favour pedestrianisation so that they can serve diners out of doors. Dan’s Restaurant has plenty of space behind its frontage on The Parade with wide access from New Road to cater for diners which leaves only ThePagoda Chinese restaurant possibly needing outdoor space for dining.

Depending upon the extent of the operation we might find our two undertakers without access for their vehicles and their passengers.

Were the road to be pedestrianised it would prevent access to the parking spaces in Old Stables Court businesses and homes. Ironically this is where the Town Mayor, Councillors, the Town Clerk and her staff park their cars.

Which may make one think that this proposal cannot be true.

Yours,

David Sherratt,
Marlborough