Manea railway station car park set to open at long last
It’s been almost two decades in the planning and building, but at long last Manea railway station car park is set to finally open.
The 112 space car park was due to open last April, but hold-ups involving the installation of CCTV left the gates well and truly closed.
Now Manea’s district councillor Charlie Marks has announced, that as long as there are no more “unforeseen circumstances”, the car park will open on Monday (August 7).
Coun Marks announced the news on Facebook and said: “Ok so after what seems like a life time of people asking parish and district councillors when the Manea station car park will open?
“The Fenland District Council’s transport development manager (TDM) confirmed that unless there are unforeseen circumstances the car park gates will open at 5.30am on Monday the 7th of August. An "official opening" will be held later in the year.
“This car park has been almost 20 years in the planning and building and has been held up on numerous occasions due to unforeseen issues, but finally Manea will have Free well lit CCTV monitored off street parking for rail users using our station.
“Many people have been involved in this project which will continue to help Manea prosper (but has not cost Manea any money).
“I think a big thank you should be given to our former parish councillors Steve Emery, Ann Desborough, and present councillor Janet Coupland, who have all spent many hours in meetings plus also Wendy Otter (TDM) and councillor Chris Seaton (portfolio holder for transport at FDC), who have all worked tirelessly with many others to finally get this project over the line.”
In March last year Councillor Chris Seaton, announcing it would open the following month, said: “Thanks to the hard work and persistence of our contractors, and all of those involved with the project, this valuable new asset for Manea is now beginning to take shape.
““The arrival of the car park marks an exciting time for the local community as it will not just make rail a more viable option for Manea residents, it will also bring with it tourism and economic benefits, whilst delivering sustainable transport options right to our doorstep.
“The project which not only includes more than 100 parking spaces, including disabled bays, has a range of additional benefits such as a new cycle shelter, CCTV coverage and low energy lighting.”
But then the opening failed to happen.
However, the spokesperson said it was hoped the car park would be up and running by the end of August, so the fact it is opening on Monday means it is happening earlier than anticipated this time around.
