Malmesbury residents and businesses have been asked what they want the future of town centre parking to be.

Many changes were brought about, with pavements widened and spaces removed, during the pandemic.

Some on street parking spaces were removed, parking times changed, new Blue Badge bays were introduced in Market Cross and the Upper High Street and unloading and loading bays created. While bollards and planters will be removed and all the previous parking spaces re-instated, when social distancing guidelines allow, some or all of the other changes could be kept.

Mayor of Malmesbury Paul Smith explained: "The pavement widening in the High Street and Oxford Street was introduced as a temporary measure in June. When it became clear social distancing would be needed for more than just a few weeks changes were made to maximise the use of the available on street parking and improve accessibility as much as possible.

"Now Malmesbury Town Council is asking residents and businesses for views we can take back to Wiltshire Council on whether any of these other should be kept after the widening arrangements can be removed.

READ MORE: Council discuss when to remove measures

"The questions cover the length of parking times in the High Street, Market Cross and Gloucester Street, the number and location of Blue Badge Bays and whether future parking arrangements should include unloading and loading bays.’’

The online survey is on the Malmesbury Town Council website at www.malmesbury.gov.uk and paper versions are available in the Town Hall.

Local shops and hospitality businesses have been hand delivered information about the survey. The closing date for views to be received is Tuesday June 1 at 5pm.

Mayor Smith added: ‘’We are looking forward to the end of all lockdown restrictions and it is already encouraging to see so many who live in and around Malmesbury shopping and spending locally and enjoying our great local facilities.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

"The information we are seeking will help us advise Wiltshire Council on the best long term arrangements for free on street parking and accessibility in the Town Centre based on all our experiences over the last year.”