Plans to install storage containers in a Cheltenham car park have sparked concerns over the potential misuse of space between the units. The project involves repurposing part of the Coronation Square car park to accommodate four metal shipping containers for Cheltenham Borough Council contractors to store furniture and building materials for up to five years.
The council’s plans will result in the loss of four parking spaces within the north-western corner of the car park, where the containers will be positioned adjacent to brick walls. The area will be enclosed with palisade fencing on two sides for security.
Councillor Simon Wheeler (LD, Hesters Way) expressed support for the chosen location but voiced reservations about an “accessibility gap” left between two containers. He suggested this gap could serve as a concealed area for young people or others, despite the fencing. Councillor Wheeler advocated for the containers to be placed together without such a gap to prevent unwanted activities.
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Similarly, Councillor Steve Steinhardt (LD, Benhall, the Reddings and Fiddler’s Green) inquired whether additional fencing could be installed to restrict access to this gap, aiming to deter any potentially “nefarious” activity.
A planning officer clarified that the gap is necessary to maintain access to a drain and confirmed that the entire area would be fenced off.
Noise concerns were also raised prior to the meeting by a local resident, who suggested the containers might be more suitably placed at the now-closed tip on Swindon Road rather than a residential-adjacent car park. The objector highlighted that the car park is surrounded by homes and that contractor noise would add to existing disturbances from the nearby shop’s loading bay. They also cited worries about increased traffic congestion caused by vans and lorries loading and unloading in the car park.
The planning committee was informed that while the containers are expected to remain for up to five years, they could be removed earlier if no longer required. After considering the objections and reassurances, the committee unanimously approved the permission for the storage container installation.