Published on 10th August 2021

parked cars

For safety reasons, Town Centre East car park has closed and visitors are asked to use other nearby car parks if driving into town.

The car park has been subject to significant vandalism and anti-social behaviour. The borough council is now working with the police to increase security and prevent further incidents of this nature. In the meantime, the council is carrying out essential repairs and refurbishment.

Councillor Iain Dobie, cabinet member for recycling, waste and street services said:  ‘’Of course closing such a large, town centre car park is a last resort however we have seen shocking acts of vandalism and we cannot risk the safety of the public.  Therefore it is only right that we close the car park immediately, carry out repairs and work with our police colleagues to establish a way forward which better protects the area and those using it.’’

Inspector Mike Yates said: “Officers from the Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team are aware of incidents of anti-social behaviour that have been reported at the Town Centre East Car Park over recent days.

“My team is working with colleagues from Solace and Cheltenham Borough Council to improve the situation, and identify those involved.

“Our colleagues from Cheltenham Borough Council have recently completed a consultation to implement a new Public Spaces Protection Order for the car park, which we support.

“Officers are conducting extra patrols in the area and asking anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour to report this by calling 101 or 999 if the incident is ongoing or using our online reporting form.’’

The online reporting form can be found at: www.gloucestershire.police.uk

Residents and visitors are encouraged to use nearby car parks such as Sherborne Place, St James Street or Bath Parade car parks. 

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