Controversial parking rules ‘will help ease superstore pressure’ (From Wharfedale Observer)
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Controversial parking rules ‘will help ease superstore pressure’
3:40pm Monday 23rd April 2012 in News By Amanda Greaves
Objections to parking restrictions on the route to the new Tesco store site were overruled by Bradford Council’s Keighley Area Committee last Thursday.
Ilkley ward councillor, Martin Smith (Con) was among those who supported the restrictions on Railway Road, Mayfield Road, Little Lane, Valley Drive and Wheatley Lane.
The “no waiting at any time” restrictions are among highways changes recommended prior to the building of the new store, off Railway Road and Mayfield Road.
Six objections were submitted by people living close by and the nearby Dillons Health and Fitness Studio.
The council’s strategic director for regeneration and culture, Barra Mac Ruairi, recommended the objections should be overrruled.
Coun Smith said the restrictions, which will now be implemented, would benefit local people now, prior to the new supermarket being built.
He told the meeting: “Having initially been concerned about the loss of community parking in this high-density housing area, I found that buses travelling along Railway Road near the bend to the top of Wilmot Road were travelling, more often than not, on the opposite side of the road, causing sometimes dangerous situations with oncoming cars.”
He said there would be opportunities to amend the scheme when the supermarket – opposed by many living nearby – opens.
Coun Smith said it was fortunate the difficulties on Railway Road had not resulted in accidents, with bus drivers taking the sensible action of slowing down.
“Even though we are solving a present situation, it will help the town ease the pressure of the unwanted large Tesco supermarket,” said Coun Smith.
“This is an area where there are a large number of terraced houses where car parking is an issue.
“The objections to the supermarket were supported by a large number of residents due to its building and due to the impact it would have to the top of Brook Street and surrounding areas of Railway Road and Valley Drive.”
