Wolverhampton car parks could be lost in revamp

Broad Street car park, which has 212 spaces, is being earmarked along with the 80-space St Peter's car park, as potential development opportunities.

Council chiefs say the proposal is only at the 'drawing board stage' and insist the city's current level of parking provision will be maintained.

The council wants to turn the northern and eastern fringes of the city centre into the St Peter's Cultural Quarter making the most of its historic buildings and cultural heritage.

A report by consultants Bruton Knowles says the council needs to find more space in the city centre for offices, shops and restaurants to help attract top businesses and more people to the city. It also highlights the need for better parking.

The report speculates that St Peter's car park, between the university and the Civic Centre, could become new offices.

The Broad Street car park could be used for offices, shops, restaurants, or an entertainment/leisure space.

Report author Ian Mercer says no premium office space has been built in the city centre since the early 1990s and that the city is losing out to Telford and Birmingham because of a lack of major shop brands.

He said: "Recent investment in Telford and Birmingham has challenged Wolverhampton's attractiveness as a shopping destination. Wolverhampton will need to consolidate, enhance and diversify its retail and leisure offer.

"A combination of an improving economic climate and recent high profile investments such as Jaguar Land Rover and Moog, have resulted in an increasing number of developers and investors recognising the potential in the city.

"However despite a more positive economic outlook, development is complex."

But he also said the city needed to ensure a strong car park strategy.

"Failure to do so will both undermine investment and delay key projects in the city core," said Mr Mercer. "Conversely if addressed, new car parking can create value, generate revenues for the city council and improve the viability of new developments."

Council spokesman Tim Clark emphasised that the proposals were at the 'ideas stage'. A public consultation into plans runs until February 27.