A WESTBURY church has welcomed the news that Wiltshire Council has scrapped Sunday parking charges in all council-operated car parks.
In 2018, White Horse News reported that church congregations in Westbury were concerned that Sunday parking would have a ‘dramatic effect’ on church go-ers in the community and pleaded to Wiltshire Council for them to scrap the charges.
It was announced last month that Wiltshire Council has now decided to scrap Sunday parking charges in all council-operated car parks.
Ian McManus, minister at West End Baptist Church said, “I am delighted at this news. Free parking on Sundays will help us immensely. We have a number of people who have to drive into town for church on Sundays. That they will not have to worry about charges frees them up to enjoy spending more time with each other.
“This helps to fulfil a very deep need in our community for social interaction and to combat the problem of loneliness in our town. I applaud the council for seeing the validity of this and long may it continue.”
Wiltshire and town councillor Gordon King said “I am pleased that Wiltshire Council has taken note of the feedback provided by myself, fellow councillors and community groups and has decided that Sunday parking will be free. This is good news for Westbury, its economy and its community activities, both of which would have struggled otherwise.
“Those members of church fellowships that were worried that they might not be able to continue to meet can now be reassured. I know that Wiltshire Council must seek to improve its revenues, but I am delighted that they have decided to look for improved revenues elsewhere. Well done Wiltshire Council”.
Cllr Bridget Wayman, cabinet member for highways, transport and waste said, “We’re delighted to be scrapping Sunday charges at all Wiltshire Council car parks and on-street pay and display bays to enable people to explore the county and park for free on one day a week.
“Free parking on Sundays is just one of a range of schemes we operate; we work with town and parish councils to provide free parking for local events, and also partner with some local communities who fund their own arrangements, including first and second hour free and parking redemption schemes.
“This represents a significant investment in our communities and local businesses, and will benefit shoppers and visitors who want to use our car parks and on-street pay and display bays for free. We hope lots of people will take advantage of this scheme.”
Signs will be placed in every car park and on-street pay and display bays advising of the decision to ensure people know about this positive news.”
