PARKING problems look set to be eased after civic chiefs agreed to extend spaces across the Winchester district.

Cabinet members approved to develop more parking within the city centre, Wickham and Bishop’s Waltham as part of a proposed major repair programme.

The proposal could see up to £600,000 spent developing car parks over the next two years.
Councillors voted to have an additional 40 spaces in Wickham. Reports conducted over the last 12 months indicated the village car park was at capacity most days. The proposal should see the extension of the existing car park at Wickham station.

Cllr Thérèse Evans said: “Parking is very difficult in Wickham. Extra parking spaces will relieve pressure on the Square.”

A further 70 spaces were agreed for Bishop’s Waltham, of which the most viable site identified was Jubilee Hall. The new Wellbeing Centre currently being developed by the parish council will incorporate the new spaces.

Cllr Steve Miller said: “Thank you on behalf of Bishop’s Waltham. It’s very welcoming to get adequate car parking.”

The programme, as approved by cabinet in February last year, has seen works undertaken at Chesil Street multi story car park including the partial replacement of the drainage system, replacement of some damaged internal fire doors and extensive painting at the site.

Some £51,000 has been set aside for new LED lighting on the eight floors at Chesil, saving future energy costs.