Council U-turn preserves Taunton High Street car park after public outcry and local politician intervention.
Taunton Town Council, the local MP, and many residents disagreed with the sale. Somerset Council listened to these concerns and now says they will keep the car park.
Mike Rigby, in charge of planning and assets, spoke about the change on Tuesday. The council will debate finances soon as their annual budget meeting happens in early March.
Rigby said the council must be sustainable and listen to what people say. He thanks those who shared their views, understanding the sale’s impact was too great.
John Hunt, who represents the area with the car park, also commented on the decision. He lobbied the council to reconsider the sale and is very pleased with the outcome. He said the car park is vital for Taunton’s economy.
He believes selling it would hurt the town and also thinks the sale would not make financial sense.
Gideon Amos, the MP for Taunton and Wellington, also welcomed the new decision. He is happy the council reconsidered the car park’s sale, noting that people want to keep parking options.