Multi-storey could be ‘boost’

That was the message from Biggleswade Chamber of Trade chairman Martin Thomas, who unveiled plans for a new 220-space car park and accompanying superstore for Bonds Lane at a meeting on Tuesday (June 4).

Speaking at the meeting of Biggleswade Town Council’s off-street car parking committee, Mr Thomas said: “There are now 17 empty premises in Biggleswade which is a major concern – in more than 30 years I have never known the situation to be that bad.

“In the 1970s we were promised a multi-storey car park in Bonds Lane but it never happened, and unfortunately the redevelopment that was planned more recently didn’t come to fruition either due to the economic downturn.

“But this could go a long way towards solving the town’s ongoing problems with a lack of parking.”

The landowner who is considering the development feels it is essential that the town is behind him if he is to pursue the project, Mr Thomas said.

He added: “He wanted me to come here tonight and get a feel for what people think about this.

“After examining the costs it is quite surprising just how expensive it is to build a multi-storey car park and he wants to potentially do so with the people’s blessing.”

Committee chairman Madeline Russell welcomed the plans and also the possibility that the town council could take over the running of the new car park.

She said: “At the moment the only car parks run by the council are the two in St Andrew’s Street and one in Chesnut Avenue.

“If the council can support these plans then that could make all the difference, as it could cost a six-figure sum just for the landowner to put together a formal planning application.”

Biggleswade mayor Councillor Hazel Ramsay said if the development went ahead and the council ran the car park, it could look to offer up to three hours of parking for free.

She said: “This would mean that people who want to come in and go to the hairdressers or visit one of the cafes could do so without worrying about the time constantly.”

Mr Thomas declined to say which retailers were interested in the possible new store, but confirmed that it would not sell food. Councillors agreed to recommend that the council backs the plans.