Road Closures Stay In Place, But On-Street Parking To Re-Open

Church Street remains closed to traffic

Controversial road closures in Market Harborough town centre are to remain in place, although on-street parking is to be reinstated.

The announcement follows a review by Harborough Council, which implemented the measures in July to help with safe queuing and social distancing.

Parking bays that have been closed on the High Street and Coventry Road are to be re-opened, although Adam and Eve Street and Church Street will stay shut to traffic, despite some business owners saying the continued closures are affecting trade.

The Council says further monitoring of the measures will be carried out while being mindful of the on-going threat from Coronavirus.

In addition, Council officers will be meeting with businesses in Church Street and Adam and Eve Street over the next week, to listen to their feedback and concerns.

Council Leader Phil King said: “Whilst it is positive that the number of cases of Covid-19 both nationally and locally continues to fall, the Council is aware of the increase in cases in Northamptonshire and mindful of the continuation of some restrictions in Leicester.

“We are therefore continuing to actively monitor the current road changes and road closures and the ongoing need for them to support social distancing.”

“It is clear that people have varying views on these road measures and we do not want to make any decisions lightly. I welcome this further observational work so we have further evidence to draw upon.”

On-street parking will also be reopened in Kibworth.

The Council says over 700 people responded to a survey asking for views on the various measures.