Members of Bailgate Area Guild, the association of retail and hospitality businesses in Uphill Lincoln, are extremely concerned about the possibility of the number of free, 1-hour, car parking spaces on Bailgate being significantly reduced for use by members of the public.

Following a campaign by a small number of residents, Lincolnshire County Council are advertising a proposed residents' permit parking scheme in Bailgate between Newport Arch to Westgate.  The existing 1 hour limited waiting Mon - Sat, 8am - 6pm, no return within 2 hours would incorporate an exemption for residents to park at any time.  As it is highly likely that permit holders will out number spaces members of The Bailgate Area Guild believe the spaces will be used continuously by residents and thus will no longer be available for anyone else.

Through research that was undertaken by the Guild we know that these spaces are used on a regular basis by locals and visitors to Uphill Lincoln to access essential services such as the chemist and post office, and to shop, worship and socialise.  We estimate that each space generates at least £400 towards the local economy every day and £146k over a year - over £2.5 million in total. 

The shops and services in Uphill Lincoln are the equivalent to a village high street or a local shopping centre such as Birchwood Shopping Centre or The Forum where shoppers can park for free to access their local services.  The potential loss of income will have a major impact on local businesses on Bailgate and throughout Uphill Lincoln.  Many business owners are worried that their business may not survive such a major blow.  We are lucky in Lincoln to have a vibrant, independent, historic area for all to enjoy but this potential loss of free parking could sadly change Uphill Lincoln forever. 

The business owners are not seeking to change anything, we simply want to keep the parking as it is for all to take advantage of.

A final decision has yet to be made.  The County Council are currently advertising the proposals which gives everyone the opportunity to give their views.  We ask you to sign our petition to keep the street parking as it is. 

You can also email your views to TRO@lincolnshire.gov.uk for the attention of D O'Neill by Friday 26 November or write to Lincolnshire County Council, Highways Services, Minor Works and Traffic Team, County Offices, Newland, Lincoln, LN1 1YL.

Thank you for your support.