Parking key to peace on front (From Penarth Times)

Parking key to peace on front

A STORY in the Penarth Times has sparked fresh discussion about the town's one-way system through the Esplanade.

Nicholas Smith of Clinton Road says the measure is "fogging the real issue".

He said: "I think the Vale of Glamorgan Council have found a temporary measure that they think will solve the long term problem, and that's the parking situation."

He added: "I see many light commercial vehicles parked for hours on end seemingly without penalty, which cuts down parking availability. And seating arrangements take away yet more spaces."

He says the traffic flow is considerably slowed by people stopping and reversing into parking bays.

Mr Smith, who is self-employed and often observes the difficulties faced by drivers negotiating the slanting parking spaces added: "These bays are angled in such a way that many drivers find them very difficult to approach.

"This needs careful rethinking should the project be allowed to continue permanently." He added: "The council should not let this 'temporary' development cloud the real issues of car parking.

"The old multi-story car park was condemned as dangerous many years ago, but still remains an eyesore and a danger, and should be replaced."

The cliff top car park in Cliff Parade would be more attractive if it was resurfaced and the important amenity recycling bins relocated into one corner, he said.

Currently they are almost a focal point in the centre.

There would then be no need for a one-way system, and all the businesses on the sea front would be back on an even footing.

A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesman said the derelict car park on Penarth Esplanade has been scheduled for demolition. The work will be carried out some time during next month.

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