IT IS a matter of some concern that a significant number of business units are lying empty or have recently closed down in Bicester town centre due to high business rates and a lack of free car parking opportunities leading to a severe reduction in customers.

Evidence reveals that free parking brings many benefits – as illustrated in the Welsh town of Cardigan. There broken car park ticket machines have had a positive knock-on effect for both motorists to park their cars free of charge and for traders who reported an increase in footfall, with a rise in turnover and shop sales up by 50 per cent. It speaks volumes regarding the benefits of free parking. A survey undertaken by the AA indicates that free parking does bring in the shoppers. Three-quarters of motorists questioned agreed that charges determine whether they visit a town centre, a resort or attraction.

Therefore, with tongue in cheek, the council should remember the old adage “The best things in life are free”. So why not apply the concept to Bicester town centre car parks? It is no coincidence that edge of town and further afield shopping outlets are booming because of free car parking on their sites.

Another point I wish to raise because the outcome quite baffles me is that Cherwell District Council recently gave up 85 parking spaces with the closure of Franklin’s Yard car park.

Yet it approved the construction of a community complex that includes office units, a public library, and a Travelodge motel without any provision for parking, a strange decision for the council to make.

Why allow extra building for more activities in the town but remove access to parking for the inevitable increase in vehicles? Meanwhile the old Lear or Valor Bruce building situated on a large site in the Industrial heartlands off the Launton Road has fallen into a bad state of repair and has been vacant for many years. Why not recycle this area as it is an ideal location for large retail development and car parking?

The council must think clearly about the matters raised and take decisive action to promote and protect the vitality and viability of our town centre.

Cllr LES SIBLEY
Bicester West