Downham Market Town Council

Downham Market Town Council Invites Public Views on Proposed Car Parking Changes

Downham Market Town Council is inviting residents, local businesses and other interested parties to have their say on proposed changes to parking arrangements across its car parks.

An initial public consultation will run from 1 November to 23 November 2026, giving the community an opportunity to share their views, raise concerns and suggest alternatives before any proposals are taken forward.

The Council is considering several changes aimed at improving parking availability, encouraging a greater turnover of spaces and making it easier for people to visit, shop and access services in Downham Market.

The key proposals being considered include:

• Three hours of free parking across Town Council car parks, with a restriction preventing vehicles from returning within one hour.

• Long-term parking options for local businesses and their employees.

• Residential parking permits, including the possibility of introducing a permit scheme at Paradise Road.

The Council recognises that accessible and convenient parking plays an important role in supporting the town centre and its businesses. Vehicles occupying spaces for extended periods can reduce availability for shoppers, visitors and those accessing local services.

By exploring changes to parking arrangements, the Council hopes to strike a balance between the needs of residents, businesses, employees and visitors, while helping to support the town's shops and services.

An opportunity to shape the proposals

This initial consultation is an informal exercise designed to identify potential issues, practical concerns and alternative suggestions at an early stage.

Feedback received will help the Council assess the proposals and consider any necessary amendments before progressing to the formal statutory consultation process.

Importantly, this is not the final opportunity for the public to have their say. A separate statutory consultation will follow, providing a further opportunity for residents, businesses and other interested parties to comment.

The Council is particularly keen to hear how the proposed changes might affect those who regularly use its car parks, including people who work in the town centre, residents who rely on nearby parking and businesses whose customers need convenient access.

All constructive feedback is welcomed, including suggestions for alternative arrangements that could help improve parking availability while meeting the needs of the wider community.

How to have your say

The initial consultation opens on Sunday 1 November 2026 and closes on Monday 23 November 2026.

Residents, businesses and other interested parties can submit their comments and suggestions by emailing:

CarParkConsultation@downhammarkettc.co.uk

Downham Market Town Council encourages everyone with an interest in parking in the town to take part and help shape proposals that work for the community.