New Sodbury car park to close at night

Following complaints from neighbours, Sodbury Town Council has decided to close the car park extension because of antisocial behaviour. Residents in High Street and Brook Street have complained about youngsters speeding, revving engines and playing loud music.

The extension was opened last year at a cost of over £250,000. The Town Council also intends to extend the CCTV network to cover the car park.

The extension is being closed for a trial period, but the old part of the car park will stay open. The Town Council says that it shouldn't cause a problem because the car park isn't used much at night.

(I've been to Sodbury several evenings lately and the Street was full - where else are people expected to park? - Editor)

The Town Council is asking people to comment to the Town Clerk on 01454 864666.

Town and South Glos councillor Linda Boon said she was disappointed with the temporary closure order.

She said: "What was the point of spending £250,000 extending the car park if we're now going to close it at night?"

"The extra spaces were provided because they were needed, so I hope this is only a temporary thing".

"We do have a problem with noisy teenagers and something has got to be done, but shutting the car park is something I'm not happy about".

"What's more it will cost money to open and close the car park every evening".

She said the young drivers are attracted to the car park because it's so open. Apparently one suggestion was to put flower planters in the car park to make it more difficult to speed, but it's been decided not to do that.