Illegal parking and congestion have dramatically increased after parking charges were introduced in Castle Combe.

That is according the parish council who has not been happy with charges introduced at Dunn’s Lane Car Park at the end of September by Wiltshire Council.

The body warned that it would cause serious traffic problems and endanger residents.

Parish Council Leader Fredrick Winup said: “The effects of car park charging are exactly as we had forecast, with gridlocks on the hill even during the normally quiet month of October.

“In that month 53 cars were booked, compared with just 2 in the same period last year.

In his letter to the Chippenham Area Board he added: “This is just the tip of the iceberg as the number of illegally parked vehicles is far higher, due to the rapid rate of turnover compared with the number of warden visits. Although these visits have increased, they are not the solution.

“They are a manifestation of the problems caused unnecessarily by the decision to charge before putting in adequate precautions to ensure the safety of the public.”

Castle Combe's picture card-esque scenery makes it a top destination for locals and tourists alike.

But its narrow roads and limited parking in the centre of the village has caused issues.

Mr Winup has previously spoken of the danger the traffic problems might create, saying congestion will slow ambulance times and ‘death or serious injury’ were possible because of the large numbers of cars and pedestrians who have no pavement to walk on.

“The council continues to play Russian Roulette with the safety of the public. This is a recipe for disaster," he said.

“The council publicity stressed that a consultation exercise was undertaken but neglected to mention that the outcome was widespread opposition, not support.

“The parking situation is now far, far worse than it has ever been!”

But Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Transport Dr Mark McClelland said all comments made during the consultation period were considered before the decision to introduce charges was made. 

“The provision of car parks has to be funded either by the general Council Tax payer or those using the facility," he said.

“In the case of the Dunns Lane car park it is appropriate that the facility is paid for by those using the facility. 

“The Dunns Lane parking rates are set to cover the cost of its provision, whilst not being a barrier to its use.

“Following the introduction of charges, use of the car park has been greater than forecast and the facility is being well used.”