Vandalism forces Cheltenham car park to close
The Town Centre East site is temporarily shut for repair works
A car park in Cheltenham Town Centre's been forced to close because of vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
The borough council says it's a temporary closure for safety reasons while essential repair works are carried out at the Town Centre East site.
The authority's also working with police to increase security.
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.’’
Residents and visitors are being asked to use nearby car parks such as Sherborne Place, St James Street or Bath Parade.