Cotswold District Council has appointed Stripe Consulting, a leading specialist in car park structures, to help create a proposed multi-storey car park at the Waterloo site in Cirencester.

Working with the council, experts at Stripe will produce specifications for the operational aspects of the car park, providing sufficient information for an architect to create the external design.

Cllr Mark Harris, chair of CDC's Cirencester Parking Board, said: "We are delighted to welcome Stripe on board. They are one of the UK's leading consultants in this field and they have an enviable track record. They will be carrying out a comprehensive review of our requirements and will recommend the optimum car park layout to suit our needs. This will take in to account the public feedback we have already received and address concerns and desires across a range of issues such as air quality, traffic management, preferred size of bays, payment systems, road layout, and other operational matters.

"We will of course be keeping residents and businesses up to date and will be seeking and be open to feedback as the process unfolds."

Punchline spoke to businesses in the area, who are in favour of more parking in the town.

Beryl Tudge of Rosella Wedding Gowns on Dyer Street, said: "When you look around Cirencester, there aren't that many places to park. We would definitely support any new car park in the town. It would be good to have some free parking. Witney in Oxfordshire has free parking and it makes such a difference to the town."

Sharon Tisdell, manager of The Danish Wardrobe Company on Dyer Street, said: "More parking would certainly help retail in the town."

Cllr Mark MacKenzie-Charrington, Cabinet member with oversight of Cirencester parking, said: "This is great news and represents a major step forward. Obviously, we still have several hurdles to overcome, including submission of an application for planning permission in spring next year, but engaging Stripe will help us immensely. They will be able to provide the specifications for the inner workings of the car park, and this will pave the way for the appointment of an architect for the external aspects. We will continue to consult the public so we can address any further concerns arising and we are always keen to take on board useful suggestions."

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