Resident parking scheme proposed for Union Street in Melksham

A residents-only parking scheme is being proposed for Union Street in Melksham, in a bid to address long standing parking concerns.

It comes as the Lowbourne car park people living on the street currently use is set to close, as part of the redevelopment of the old library site into homes.

Melksham Town and Wiltshire Councillor, Jennie Westbrook, told us Union Street has historically faced parking challenges, prompting various proposed solutions over the years.

"This is probably the furthest we've managed to get with a dedicated resident parking scheme," Westbrook said.

Jennie highlights Union Street's narrow structure as a complicating factor, noting, "Union Street is a very small, narrow street that runs through the centre of town, which has high pavements."

Impact of Library Site Redevelopment

The redevelopment of a nearby library site has intensified the need for a viable parking solution.

"Many of the residents on Union Street use Lowbourne as a car park to park on for their resident parking. Unfortunately, that car park is going to be going under the library development," Jennie explained.

While there is a car park on Union Street, Westbrook acknowledges it will not meet the demand for resident parking.

She added that it will ease safety concerns with the street home to many people who work shifts, including as nurses in Bath, which can mean late night finishes.

Jennie said: "To be asking them to park further away from their homes potentially creates a safety issue."

Community Consultation Upcoming

A consultation initiative is planned to gather feedback from the Union Street community and surrounding areas, allowing residents to voice their concerns and preferences.

"There will be a full consultation done. And I do actively encourage all residents, particularly on Union Street, but also those in surrounding areas, to have their say," Jennie said.

She emphasised the importance of input from the community, mentioning, "This is a decision that only Wiltshire Council can make. It will be a decision that's made by the Cabinet member for Highways."

While the consultation's exact timeframe remains unspecified, Jennie expects it will follow the statutory duration, likely around 12 weeks.

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