BUSINESSES in a popular Cotswold village say proposals to extend the use of one of the area's car parks would help immensely despite residents opposing the plans.

However, a leading councillor has opposed the plans.

We reported last week how Longborough Developments Ltd submitted a proposal to use agricultural land located at Manor Fields on Station Road in Bourton-on-the-Water as a public car park.

It is wishing to obtain permission from the council to extend the use of the car park up to a period of 42 days, which compares to the 14 days that is currently allowed.

This extension would also include a further 300 extra parking spaces, allowing for more tourists to visit the area.

Local residents have expressed their concerns over the proposals, arguing it would only lead to overcrowding.

Chantelle Whitelegg, who owns Chesnut Tea Room and Once Upon a Candy Shop in the village, felt extending the use of the car park would benefit businesses greatly.

"It would really help immensely," she said.

"We recently lost a lot of coach parking that was responsible for bringing in tourists and that is impacting businesses.

"We can't get tourists in and, as a business, we are losing trade. So this proposal would benefit us greatly and make up for what we are going to lose."

Mrs Whitelegg also stressed extra parking spaces would be safer for the village and prevent cars parking dangerously on pavements.

Cotswold district councilllor Paul Hodgkinson, who is also a candidate for the North Cotswolds seat at the general election, however, is against the plans.

"I am certainly not in favour of this," he said.

"I have spoken to residents who are concerned about the plans. Manor Fields is one of three car parks that is open at peak times.

https://www.cotswoldjournal.co.uk/news/24102436.residents-fury-fresh-plans-new-public-car-park/

"This is in addition to the other car parks that are also available at peak times.

"I don't see the need to have another car park in the area. I don't support it."

A spokesperson for Cotswold District Council said: “An application has been received in relation to an existing car parking facility in the village.

"The consultation period is still running and will do so until 23/2/24. 

"We have received objections and will be considering those as part of our assessment of the application but at this stage, before all the key consultations have been received and whilst the period for public comment is still running, it is far too early to say what the recommendation will be.”