MORETON in Marsh residents are being given the chance to have their say on plans to provide a new public car park.

Gloucester Diocesan Board of Finance (GDBF) has organised the informal drop in public consultation event, giving residents the chance to view preliminary proposals to provide a new car park on part of the Glebe field at Bourton Road.

The proposals are to provide 150 car parking spaces with potential to expand to 250 and some coach parking spaces. It is intended the car park would serve visitors, railway passengers and employees of town centre businesses. Pedestrian routes would also be provided to the town centre. Proposals are at an early stage and GDBF says it is keen to understand local views before proceeding further.

Parking and congestion has become a bigger issue for Moreton in Marsh, which led to a Parking Working Group (PWG) being set up a few years ago, with the aim to explore potential solutions.

Andrew Burrows, from PWG, had previously complained about the congestion stating that the situation had got so troublesome, he did not know where to park safely.

A PWG statement, released in April, said: "PWG feel that the Glebe land would be a suitable location for a new car park as it has good access and is a short walk to the town centre. This new car park, targeted for delivery in 2019, would be used by all day parkers who are currently congesting the town centre."

GDBF has responded positively to local views that the Glebe field may be able to provide a car parking facility that could assist the town in addressing its needs, enabling better and safer traffic management and an improved town centre environment.

The drop in session is being held on Friday, November 23, at the Council Chamber, Moreton Area Centre between 4.30pm and 7pm. Those attending will have the chance to complete a response form, giving them the chance to provide feedback and suggestions.

Cotswold District councillor Alison Coggins, who represents Moreton West, told the Journal she was aware of the proposal, and would be attending the consultation event to view it, and see what the public's view was on the plan.