FINALISED plans to revamp Fordingbridge Car Park have been released following a public consultation.

The proposals outlined by New Forest District Council (NFDC) are aimed at increasing accessibility and safety in the car park.

A statement on the district council’s website said: “We received a wide range of comments, from varying perspectives, and all were considered as part of our plans for the car park. The most workable suggestions have been incorporated into the plans, which are intended to improve accessibility and safety.”

New speed ramps will be introduced, as proposed in the consultation, to “smooth traffic flow for the safety of all pedestrians and vehicle users”.

The number of short and long stay parking spaces will remain “largely unchanged”, and will include disability parking, new parent and child and electric car charging spaces.

The council said:

“We feel the introduction of electric car charging bays will fulfil current demand; this provision will be re-addressed if there is a change in demand.”

The allocation for new parking and child parking has been reviewed and will be moved nearer to the amenities.

Drainage in the car park is also to be improved.

The council said: “We will maintain the Round Hill entrance along with the other two car park entrances at Shaftesbury Street and The Bartons. Existing pedestrian routes will remain the same but will be developed to improve safety and access.”

The recycling banks will be relocated to the Long Stay A338 Slip Road Car Park to ease HGV congestion in the car park and town centre.

A spokesman for NFDC said: “The car park works are out to tender at present. The timing of the works will be agreed with the contractor once they have been appointed, as will the final cost.

“We are working with Fordingbridge Town Council to agree suitable dates, after the Bridge Street roadworks have been completed by Hampshire Highways.”