1,700+ Sign Petition Against Spiked Fence in Car Park

More than 1,700 signatures have been collected on a petition urging Slough Borough Council to reassess its decision to establish a spiked fence around a car park in Cippenham. The petition emerged in August after the council installed security fencing around a car park adjacent to Eltham Avenue Recreation Ground, aiming to facilitate the parking of school minibuses for its ‘home to school’ transport service.

Background of the Petition

The petition was initiated by local residents, bolstered by support from ward councillor Frank O’Kelly, representing the Liberal Democrats in Cippenham Village. Opposition to the fence installation has grown, resulting in 1,712 residents calling for an evaluation of the council’s decision. This pressing issue prompted a discussion at the recent full council meeting held at the council’s headquarters on Windsor Road.

Community Concerns Raised

During the meeting, Jen Simpson, a local resident, voiced her concerns regarding a lack of consultation with community members prior to the fence’s erection. She noted that this disconnect has affected the feeling of community. “The intrusive and obstructive fence has caused real harm, both socially and physically,” Simpson stated.

• The fence restricts access to important community spaces.
• Residents, especially those with mobility challenges, face difficulties accessing the outdoor gym via a muddy path.
• Local community groups, including FC Cippenham, have found their usage of the recreational space limited.

Council’s Response

Council leader Cllr Dexter Smith defended the installation, asserting that Eltham Avenue remains accessible to residents. He stressed that the intention is to secure 24 minibuses used to transport vulnerable children and young people. However, this claim was countered by several councillors who acknowledged the concerns of local residents.

Cllr O’Kelly remarked on the visible impact of the fence. “It looks like an industrial park,” he said, advocating for a reconsideration of the decision. Cllr Mark Instone emphasized the need for the council to serve the community rather than act unilaterally, suggesting that prior consultation could have prevented the current issues.

Alternative Parking Solutions

During the discussions, several alternative solutions for parking were suggested. Cllr Robert Anderson highlighted the nearby multi-storey car park, St Martin’s Place, which has been underutilized for over two years. He questioned the necessity of placing community transport in the Eltham Avenue car park when other options are available.

Next Steps for the Council

Cllr Smith clarified that the Eltham Avenue car park has 72 spaces, with 48 still available for public use. He acknowledged that while the council’s approach could have been improved, its decisions were reasonable. The petition’s future will be discussed with residents, with the cabinet committed to engaging with community groups and ward councillors to find a way forward.

As the situation unfolds, the outcome of the petition may lead to further modifications regarding the fencing and its impact on the Cippenham community.