RE the article Don't rob area of parking. Balance is the key word. I believe care must be taken to maintain a
balance of gardens and parking on St Nicholas Cliff.
After all, it is unique in that it contains more than 1,000 bed spaces yet is close to the shopping centre. There is nothing to be gained in this proposed change.
My husband and I had a hotel on St Nicholas Cliff for nearly 30 years, so I speak fr
om personal experience.
Thousands of visitors have stayed in this area over the years, but not many spent time in the gardens. However, they did seem to appreciate the view of one, but still liked the potential of a car space close by.
Not everyone is prepared to use multi-storey car parks, and these people are prepared to pay to park in this area of St Nicholas Cliff.
In the 1990s it was rumoured that the Town Hall was going to make the garden on St Nicholas Cliff into extra parking.
Needless to say I wrote and asked please don't take the garden away. Now the proposed plan is reversed, so I ask please don't take away the parking area.
It would cost more than it is worth. At present the council does have the much-needed revenue from it. The motorist has an element of choice, which in turn supports the businesses in the surrounding area.
The properties on and around the cliff were all built before the advent of the car and generally do not have the land space to make private parking.
These same properties generate revenue for the town in many ways, so they do need the support of the town hall to maintain that balance.
CA Pummell
North Street
Flixton
