Drivers facing Ellesmere free parking blow

Motorists who have been parking for free at a private Ellesmere car park for more than 20 years could be banned from doing so from next year.

Shropshire Council is to terminate an agreement allowing people to park at Ellesmere Comrades Club from January 1. It comes as a fresh blow for visitors to the town who have been forced to pay to park at council-owned car parks since May.

In 1989, an agreement was reached with the former North Shropshire District Council giving the public the right to use the club car park free of charge between 9am and 3pm.

Shropshire Council continued this agreement but has decided to terminate it at the end of this year.

John Metcalfe, secretary of Ellesmere Comrades Club, said: "Both Shropshire Council and Ellesmere Town Council have refused to give any financial assistance with the upkeep of the parking area.

"Negotiations are taking place between the club, Ellesmere Medical Practice and representatives of patients to reach a satisfactory solution.

"The public will be kept informed of future parking arrangements."

Laura Owen, spokeswoman for the unitary council, said: "Shropshire Council currently leases the Ellesmere Comrades Club car park.

"However, this lease ceases from December 31 as the council is no longer able to contribute to free parking in Ellesmere, due to changes brought about by the parking strategy.

"As the car park is private property, the club will determine the future use for its members and the public after consultation with Shropshire Council.

"Alternative pay and display public car parking is available at Spar Bridge, Talbot and Cross Street Car Parks."

In April new charges of up to £1.80 a day were introduced in Wem and Market Drayton.

Charges were introduced in May after the town was given a month reprieve to allow for residents' parking schemes to be implemented.

A trader-only car park by the Wharf has opened to free up spaces for shoppers.

In September, Whitchurch became the final Shropshire market town to implement new charges.

Shropshire Council gave the town a five month stay of execution until provision was made for an extra car park for traders to use.