Residents of Wesley Close have raised concerns about the potentially ‘life-changing’ impact of proposed parking restrictions along the road.
Somerset Council is proposing to introduce double yellow lines on Wesley Close as part of wider changes to parking and waiting restrictions on over 30 roads in Frome and surrounding towns. These restrictions aim to stop waiting, loading, unloading and on-street parking.
However, residents, business owners and local councillors have expressed concerns about how the restrictions could affect those living and working in the area.
At the full town council meeting on Wednesday 12th March, Keyford ward councillor Nick Dove read a statement from the business director of Pure Moves, a pilates and wellness centre on Wesley Close for the past 18 years.
The statement said, “I would like to formally object to the proposed parking restrictions. It’s essential to preserve parking and waiting spaces for our clients who use our facilities. Many have physical disabilities and mobility restrictions. Wesley Close is crucial for these clients, as it’s where they park or are dropped off by caregivers. The only alternative parking areas are unsuitable, as they involve navigating a steep slope or a long walk, which increases the risk of injury.”
Residents also voiced their objections, with one woman expressing concern for her safety. She said, “Part of moving to Frome was being part of a community. We all communicate with each other, and if there are parking issues, we move our cars around to support one another. If we had to move our cars elsewhere, I’d be worried about my safety, especially as a single woman. Park Road is quite far away if I have shopping or need to park and walk home in the dark.
“Wesley Close has had no parking issues, so it makes no sense for this to change. Also, parking further away from home increases the risk of damage and theft.”
Another resident, who has lived in Christ Church Street West for 20 years, said there had never been a parking problem in the area and that the restrictions could have a ‘life-changing’ effect.
Somerset Councillor Martin Dimery noted that the restrictions were proposed by the Somerset Council Highways team without prior consultation with local councillors. He encouraged residents to contact him with their concerns, which he would raise with Somerset Council.
Frome Town Council’s planning and development manager, Jane Llewellyn, explained that parking restrictions are usually imposed after complaints. She pledged to contact Somerset Council to understand the origin of the complaint and explore possible collaborative solutions.
Frome Times contacted Somerset Council for a statement about the matter. However, the authority said it is unable to comment as the proposal is part of an ongoing consultation.
