CENTRAL Devon MP Mel Stride met former Crediton Mid Devon District Councillor Martin Binks in Crediton last week to discuss the future of Crediton’s Town Square.

Mr Binks would like to see the square used as a temporary car park when it isn’t being used for events such as the annual Food Festival or fortnightly Farmers’ Markets, with a particular focus on providing space for blue badge holders.

Mr Binks explained: “The Town Square is a hugely convenient public space that sits empty for the majority of the year when it isn’t being used for events.

“In the consultation surrounding Crediton’s Town Plan many residents highlighted the fact that the Square isn’t fully utilised and one simple solution that would benefit both residents and local businesses would be to turn it into a temporary car park.

“Given its close proximity to the High Street, several of the spaces should be given to blue badge holders as returning from the shops, up the hill laden with shopping, makes St Saviour’s Way car park difficult to use for people with mobility problems.”

Backing the call, Mr Stride said: “Martin is absolutely right that there may well be an opportunity here to better utilise the space and whatever revenue Mid Devon District Council raises from the car park could potentially go back into the local community.

“Any new parking near the High Street will also provide a welcome boost to local traders. It deserves serious consideration.”