PROPOSALS to open up Tavistock's Alexander Centre car park to the public and introduce parking fees are being opposed by Tavistock Town Council, following a meeting in the town last week.

The proposals, being championed by Tavistock county councillor Debo Sellis in an effort to try and improve parking provision in the town, particularly when extra houses are to be built in future, are currently up for consultation.

West Devon borough member Jeff Moody told councillors he had 'grave concerns' over the proposals. He said they could have 'severe impact' on the Alexander Centre, which provided a vital facility for pre-school children, young adults with special needs and other vulnerable members of the community.

To introduce parking fees for users of the centre could jeopardise its usage and ultimately herald its closure, said Mr Moody.

Cllr John Sheldon said quite apart from the additional financial pressure imposed on those using the Alexander Centre, accessing and particularly exiting the centre was narrow and dangerous, with blind spots for motorists.

He was also concerned if the area was opened up at night, it could attract 'late night visits' which would leave elderly residents in the area 'suspicious, restless and anxious'.

Cllr Mandy Ewings said when the idea was first proposed at traffic management committee meetings, the idea was that the site could be used when the Alexander Centre was not in use, for example, on busy Saturdays.

She said it was 'a shock' when the proposed traffic order was published.

'The county officers were present at these meetings — they also knew the access was a serious concern.

'There are other issues and we need to respect the users of the centre because they are primarily vulnerable adults and parents with young children — Tavistock College also use it a lot for certain of their students.

'I think we should object, and put our objections in as soon as possible,' said Cllr Ewings.

Cllr Sellis told the council that none of the proposals were 'written in stone'. She said the charging period proposed was 8am to 8pm, which she felt should be altered to 8am until 6pm.

'We have been in discussions for a long time, trying to find areas we could use for extra parking. We have the potential for 750 extra dwellings around the town in Tavistock — we have to keep the vibrancy of the town and we do need extra parking.

'We are now in consultation with the public and councillors — please put in your comments — that's the democratic process,' said Cllr Sellis.

The draft order, which proposes charging £1.20 for up to two hours parking, and £2.20 for over two hours, between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week including bank holidays, can be seen at Tavistock Library or at http://www.devon.gov.uk/traffic-orders">www.devon.gov.uk/traffic-orders

The order states that the proposal will increase the number of parking places available in the area, and aims to improve the amenities of the area.

Objections and other comments on the proposal must be made in writing by August 16, either to the website or to the County Solicitor, Devon County Council, County hall, Exeter EX2 4QD, quoting reference IMR/B08471.

The town council is objecting on the grounds it would increase usage of a sub-standard and unsafe junction, at a location which should prioritise car parking for users of the Alexander Centre. While applauding the county on its efforts to source new car parking areas, it is urging the county to consult specifically with nearby neighbours and residents as soon as possible.