Police and store discuss parking in Woodstock (From Witney Gazette)

Police and store discuss parking in Woodstock

8:30am Friday 7th April 2006 in Witney By Andrew Alexander

POLICE met the managers of a Woodstock store to try to solve the problem of congestion in the town centre.

A recent survey of more than 300 people by the local neighbourhood action group which comprises police officers, West Oxfordshire District Council, and residents found parking was the number two problem, after 'youth behaviour'.

The action group, or NAG, is producing a leaflet to show visitors the best places to park, and has asked the Co-op, in the High Street, to look at suitable measures, including new signs, or even offering a home-delivery service.

NAG member, Rachel Severn, said: "The NAG looked at a familiar traffic issue in Woodstock parking opposite the Co-op. We all understand why it's only for a minute, everyone does it but few of us reflect beyond our own immediate need or the frustration experienced circling the town looking for that one space.

"We park on double yellow lines, half on the pavement, creating congestion, blocking visibility, without awareness of the hazards we cause for pedestrians, pushchairs, mobility vehicles, or other drivers."

The action group is also concerned that the town's long-stay car park is being used as a park-and-ride by commuters going to Oxford.

Neighbourhood manager, Sgt Clare Mackintosh, said among the suggestions she had discussed with the store was offering vouchers as an incentive for people who use the car parks instead of the street.