Tensions ran high at an extraordinary meeting of Trowbridge Town Council on Monday, October 6, as local residents made a last-ditch effort to save St Stephen’s multi-storey car park—commonly referred to as ‘the people’s car park.’ For over five decades, this facility has held a special place in the community, fostering a belief that locals have an inalienable right to park free of charge in the county town of Wiltshire.
Invoking a longstanding—but legally complex—covenant, several speakers demanded compensation for the potential loss of free parking if ownership of the car park is transferred. Wiltshire Council is expected to approve today (Tuesday, October 7) the proposed transfer of the St Stephen’s car park to the owner of the adjoining Castle Place shopping centre, a move that has sparked widespread concern.
Currently closed for essential maintenance, the car park is undergoing “extensive repairs” slated to continue until January 2026, with costs estimated at £350,000. The closure has intensified frustrations, as locals worry about the future availability and cost of parking in Trowbridge.
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During the lively meeting, it became evident that a deep-rooted folklore has developed around the car park’s role in the community. Residents passionately described it as a communal asset, urging Wiltshire Council to allow the people of Trowbridge a say in deciding its future.
Wiltshire Councillor Chris Vaughan (Trowbridge Park, Reform UK) expressed his disappointment with how the council handled the situation, criticizing the lack of transparency and confidential handling of discussions. He and fellow Reform UK Councillor Boaz Barry (Westbury North) called for residents to be compensated with alternative free parking spots if the multi-storey is transferred.
Bob Price, former chairman of West Wiltshire District Council, offered historical context, explaining that the free parking arrangement was originally part of an agreement between the council and the shopping centre owners—not a right granted directly to residents. He noted the financial challenges of maintaining free parking and questioned the feasibility of continuing the arrangement.
Cllr Mel Jacob, leader of Trowbridge Town Council and deputy leader of Wiltshire Council, clarified the legal and operational realities. She explained that the contentious covenant technically exists between private parties and that if the car park and shopping centre share ownership, the covenant’s enforcement becomes unlikely.
Jacob also noted that although maintenance was overdue and now urgent due to safety concerns, parking remains readily available elsewhere in Trowbridge through around 300 council spaces and approximately 1,200 private spots, including those in supermarkets. However, she acknowledged residents’ concerns that many workers who previously enjoyed free parking will now face charges.
As Wiltshire Council prepares to decide on the ownership transfer, community members remain united in their hope to preserve ‘the people’s car park’ or at least secure fair compensation for its loss.