A COUNCILLOR has launched a petition calling for a rethink on plans for Lichfield’s bus station.
Proposals have been drawn up which would see the facility remain on its current Birmingham Road spot – but it would be reduced in size.
A large chunk of the site would be given over to a compound for use by builders developing homes on the former Tempest Ford plot.
But Cllr Matthew Wallens, Reform UK representative for Curborough ward, said Lichfield District Council’s proposed scheme would have a huge impact on those visiting the city centre.
He said:
“Lichfield is a destination city. People come from across the region and beyond to visit our cathedral, our markets and venues like the Garrick.
“If we make it harder for people to get here, we risk damaging our local economy.”
The proposals for the bus station emerged as part of plans for a linear park which is earmarked to connect the Birmingham Road site with the wider city centre.
But Cllr Wallens said the reality of the scheme would cause wider problems:
“They’re talking about redesign, improvements, making it all look nice etc, but at the same time they’re cutting back on coach and bus parking. It doesn’t make sense.
“It’s the kind of thing that sounds great in a meeting room, but in the real world? Big problems.
“What about the drivers? Nobody seems to be talking about that, but they need proper places to stop. To rest is not optional, it’s required.
“It just feels like the basics haven’t been thought through. You can dress it up however you like, but if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work.
“We should be supporting tourism and supporting local business not making things harder.”
“The petition calls on Lichfield District Council to fully reconsider their proposal to reduce bus station to stop the inevitable chaos of coach parking, passenger safety and traffic congestion.”
The petition can be found online.
