Access key concerns as traders welcome to street closure plans
pop to the bank such as Halifax and then going from the town centre.
“So I think parking has to be looked at along with street closures and pedestrianising them.
“Parking is so important as a factor in all this.
“As for the street closure, it’s better to try it and fail than to not try it at all.”
As soon as Mr Thomas spoke to the Star,
Carmarthenshire Council announced that it has agreed to extend the current free parking period, brought in at the beginning of the Covid-19 lockdown, throughout August to provide a summer of free parking in town centre car parks.
While David Darkin, president of Llanelli Chamber of Commerce said: “The world has changed and we need to change with it.
“Social distancing rules mean that cafés, restaurants etc, will need additional space such as pavements if their businesses are to remain viable and shops will need plenty of outdoor space to allow for queuing.
“I fully understand that this may cause some inconvenience for people, but without these measures, many businesses will struggle to survive.
“In any event, these are temporary orders that can be stopped if unsuccessful and I believe they are very much worth trying.”
Deb Chapman at The Art Gallery Y Ty Celf in Stepney Street, which is currently undergoing refurbishment, said: “I am in favour of trying it out (closing Cowell Street), but with a review into it if it doesn’t work and only reduces footfall in the town centre further.”
Llanelli Elli ward councillor John Jenkins said liaising with business was a key factor over the closure of the street or any changes to the town centre going forward as coronavirus continues to be dealt with.
He added: “For a move this major I would hope the council has fully consulted at least all the businesses on Cowell Street and the market before bringing this in.
“I’m not a businessman, the council aren’t in business.
“This should be for the businesses affected to determine if this is a good or bad idea.”
Carmarthenshire Council has said measures in Llanelli, Carmarthen and Ammanford are temporary, and that they can be reversed at any time.
They also say that feedback from businesses and shoppers alike – which can be conveyed over the phone on 01267 234567 or by email at consultation@ carmarthenshire.gov.uk – will help to inform any future decisions on reverting or prolonging pedestrianisation.
“These changes will mean people visiting our town centres can queue safely or walk through busy areas without having to mind passing traffic,” said the leader of Carmarthenshire Council, Emlyn Dole.
“As well as providing space for safe social distancing, pedestrianising these streets also opens up opportunities for businesses to serve their customers outdoors. We sincerely hope that this brings more people into our town centres to enjoy shopping, eating and relaxing with friends in a safe environment.
“Bringing in a temporary order gives us the flexibility to make changes if needed, and we are keen to do what’s right for each town.
“If anyone has any representations to make about these changes, we’d like to hear it.”