AN upgrade of a well-used car park has been given the green light.

Cotswold District Council’s cabinet has approved a £150,000 upgrade of the Rissington Road car park in Bourton-on-the-Water which will see the full resurfacing of the car park as well as a survey and subsequent maintenance works to drainage.

There will also be a full re-lining, with re-design of the layout to include pedestrian walkways, disabled parking, directional markings, and improved vehicle and aisle spacing.

Improved height and access barriers and increased and improved lighting will also be a part of the work.

Liberal Democrat leader at Gloucestershire County Council, Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, representing Bourton and Northleach said that whilst he was pleased that the work is being carried out, it does not solve the main problem of people parking illegally.

He said: "Parking in Bourton is always a hot topic, especially during the peak tourist season.

"I know that residents often find getting a space a problem and they’ll be pleased to hear that the main car park is being given a much needed makeover.

"However, people parking illegally on single and double yellow lines is the main problem in Bourton. We need more robust enforcement to deal with this.”

“I’m also currently working with the parish council and highways to get changes to on street parking in the village so that people who live in Bourton all year round have the right arrangements for them.”

CDC Member responsible for parking issues Cllr Chris Hancock said: “The proposed works will provide a much safer and more user-friendly car park at Rissington Road for both motorists and pedestrians.

"Carrying out these major structural and design upgrades will also result in much cheaper routine maintenance costs.

“We know that the car park is very well used, especially during the peak holiday season, and we will ensure that the works do not start until after the summer.

"We will have to close the site for a while but we will aim to minimise any disruption. We will provide more details once plans are firmed up.”