A Furore of Objections to Sleaford Market Place Pedestrianisation
Plans to transform the Sleaford Market Place into a pedestrian-friendly plaza in Lincolnshire have sparked widespread objections. The market place currently functions as the town's central car park. It is hoped that the proposed development would make it a more relaxing car-free space. Despite this vision, the proposition has stirred considerable controversy, especially from traders.
Council Response to Concerns
A spokesperson for North Kesteven District Council assured that the concerns raised by citizens would be considered in the planning process. However, there is little optimism about the scheme's success, primarily due to parking-related concerns.
The Plight of Shoppers, Residents and Traders
Resident and shopper Andrea Hanson said, "To remove this facility and have to park further away would not only impact greatly on safety, especially during the winter months, but also affect those local businesses and market traders that have worked so hard to survive throughout Covid and are trying to stay afloat in the current climate."
Hanson, along with 85 others, formally objected to the plan, citing concerns about parking issues escalating due to the changes. She is not alone in her thinking. Another resident, Stuart Munford-Gibbs, echoed similar sentiments, saying that convenient parking made shopping in Sleaford a good choice and that a long walk would discourage people.
Concerns from the Churchwardens
Two churchwardens from St Deny's Church, which oversees the square, voiced concerns about the plans' parking provisions. They berated the proposed three leftover spaces for events as being insufficient for weddings and funerals. They additionally speculated that the concrete planters supposed to be the plaza's focal points could end up as dumps for "collateral rubbish".
Some Supportive Voices
Despite the tide of discontent, not everyone is against the plan: Richard Kear, a Sleaford resident, supports the transformation, suggesting it could breathe new life into the city. Marc Lee-Smith shares the sentiment, calling the project a "great idea", and suggested that it could benefit local restaurants and pubs.
The Council's Reply
In response to the critiques, the council spokesperson reiterated that everyone's comments are being taken into account and will inform the planning committee deliberations. If approved, the development would commence in Spring 2024, with an expected completion date in 2025.
The Petitions
The Save Sleaford Group has submitted several petitions against the plans to the planning portal, garnering tens of signatures each.