WATCH: Traders plead to re-open Stafford car park amid closure chaos

Residents in Staffordshire are calling for a former pub car park to be re-opened amid claims its closure is causing 'absolute chaos' for motorists.

The Co-op was given permission to build a new shop at the site of the former Lynton Tavern in Weeping Cross, Stafford, two years ago.

But with the site still not open and the 52-space car park still not in use, residents are now demanding it is re-opened.

Councillor Ann Edgeller said the situation is causing 'absolute chaos' and claimed the firm is risking breaking ties with its future customers.

She said: "Firstly, this shop should have been opened last October, it has been delayed and delayed again.

"The loss of this car park means that shoppers have nowhere to park in the area.

Residents and traders in Weeping Cross protested against the closure of the 52-space Co-op car park

"It is causing absolute chaos for motorists and it is a cause for concern for businesses too, who are losing custom because people just don't want to come to the town any more."

"We know that a section of the car park can be opened because it has been done in the past when we complained, however they are just refusing to."

The situation is also hitting traders, with one businessman saying he has had to delay the opening of a new shop.

Local businesses say their trade has suffered as customers have nowhere to park

Mark Jasper, from Jaspers Village Bakery, has a new branch ready to go at Weeping Cross, but says there is 'no point' in doing so until people have somewhere to park.

He said: "We have everything in place ready to go and people are waiting to enjoy what we will offer at our new premises.

"However, there really is no point in opening up until the situation is sorted.

"It isn't a good situation to be in and if it carries on then it will start to get worrying."

The Co-op said the situation was down to the developers who have experienced long delays

The parking situation will be compounded by the closure of the car park at the nearby St Anne's church, which is set for a revamp later this month.

Stafford Borough Council leader Patrick Farrington, said: "People are angry and upset, businesses are suffering and simply, someone needs to get the car park open."

The Co-Op says the situation is down to the developers and the firm has updated Councillor Edgeller throughout the process.

Central England Co-operative spokesperson Sarah Ashton said: "The developers Goldrush and their main contractor have experienced long delays.

"As a result, we are waiting for the developers to complete their work before we can take ownership and gain access to the site.

"We understand the frustrations of traders and residents as we are looking forward to moving into our new store and being able to support and serve our local community."