An intense dispute has erupted in Wells, England’s smallest city, following the unexpected closure of a popular free car park by the landowners. For many years, visitors, market traders, business owners, and shoppers have relied on parking at Palace Farm during market days, festivals, and other significant city events.
Palace Farm, managed by the Phelps family for over four generations, has traditionally opened its gates during major local events to accommodate parking needs. The Phelps family are tenant farmers on the land owned by the Church Commissioners of England. However, on Friday, 4 September, a notice appeared on the gate declaring that parking had been withdrawn “until further notice” at the request of the landowners.
The closure has sparked widespread indignation among residents, campaign groups, and business owners who stress the car park’s essential role in supporting local tourism and commerce. Lavinia Byrne, a local writer and broadcaster, voiced her concerns prominently on social media. Byrne, formerly a nun and an established author, remarked: “Have the Church Commissioners no shame? This land has regularly provided much-needed parking, especially on Market Days. The reduction in footfall will inevitably affect market traders and also two of Wells' key attractions-the Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace.”
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Under current legislation, farmland may temporarily serve non-agricultural purposes, such as festivals, car boot sales, or parking, for up to 28 days in a calendar year without requiring planning permission. The community fears that the loss of this parking facility will harm Wells' economy by discouraging visitors and shoppers alike.
Judith Ludovino, local business owner and chairwoman of the Wells Chamber of Commerce, initiated a petition against the closure, which has already gathered over 200 signatures. In her statement, Ludovino emphasised the city’s vibrant community spirit and the importance of Wells’ historical sites and markets to the local economy. She highlighted longstanding concerns over limited parking options, noting that temporary parking at Palace Farm has helped ease city centre congestion and supported visitor numbers on busy days and during events.
“Removing or restricting this vital service could severely impact both local businesses and the economic wellbeing of Wells,” Ludovino stated.
The notice indicates the car park will remain closed while the matter is resolved. A spokesperson for the Church Commissioners explained that they are aware of the reliance on the parking arrangements and are undertaking a review to ensure all planning permissions and authorisations are properly in place. Consequently, they have instructed their tenant to suspend all parking activities during this review.
The Church Commissioners are also consulting with local stakeholders regarding a potential housing development proposal on part of the Palace Farm site, adding further complexity to the situation.
The community continues to await a resolution that balances legal compliance with the needs of Wells’ residents, visitors, and businesses.