‘TAKE OWNERSHIP FOR TRAFFIC CHAOS’

Market praised but visitors left stuck in car park

TRENTHAM Gardens says it is ‘delighted’ with the popularity of its Makers’ Markets – despite shoppers have complained about being stuck on the car park for more than an hour.

More than 100 traders and designers showcased their wares at Trentham Shopping Village over the weekend.

But motorists were still left stuck in traffic, pictured right, amid complaints of drivers blocking the roundabout on the A34.

Now Trentham says it was ‘surprised’ to hear visitors were affected by traffic as it had a team of marshals on site all day.

A spokeswoman added: “We had five traffic marshals from 8am to 6pm, with an additional five members of staff during peak times. “We are delighted with the popularity of the Makers’ Markets, which will be held at Trentham each weekend until December 5.

“We launch the Christmas at Trentham lights trail this Friday which promises to be spectacular.” Motorists are calling for Trentham to open its South Gate entrance to help ease traffic congestion.

Ash Carvelli said: “I am surprised at Trentham’s response. This is no new issue. We sat on their car park for nearly three hours, two years ago to get off.

“While I applaud them putting on these events they have to take more ownership for the chaos they are causing.

“It’s beyond me why they have closed the South Gate.

“They could easily open this up and put a park and ride in to get people from the car park to the venue.

“Smacks of a corporate giant who isn’t considering their neighbours. Shame to see repetitive bad press for the same issue.”

Julie Leech added: “I was stuck on the car park for over one-and-a-half hours on Saturday, it’s nothing new.”

The Makers Market is set to return for the next two weekends, 10am to 5pm.