Mayor of Narberth, Clr. David Norcross, is demanding a change in attitude to parking in the town. He is set to make the request when the ongoing saga of traffic problems is thrashed out at a special meeting which is being called by the town council next week. Said Clr. David Norcross: "The one-way layout may ease the flow of traffic, but only if these roads are clear and, unfortunately, there have been numerous times when the emergency services have been unable to get round to attend either a medical or fire emergency. "The council never wants to report that someone's death could have been averted if the traffic problems had been tackled. "It is a tradition and expectation that shoppers and traders alike use the main roads in Narberth as a parking facility. However, this attitude must change and help and support is required by the authorities in order for this to happen. "The balance between the ease of shopping and providing an easy flow of traffic has got to be addressed. "Despite our feelings that Narberth is so special, we are not alone in being a small historic town having traffic congestion problems. "I am sure that between all the parties involved, a better solution than just parking fines and the possibility of future increase in car parking facilities can be gained." Added Deputy Mayor and county council representative, Clr. Wynne Evans: "Narberth has a severe parking and traffic flow problem and this meeting allows all parties to get together to discuss it. "I have always said this is because of illegal and irresponsible parking and by people overstaying the time limit in the parking bays," he said. "I believe that with the co-operation of the police, then possibly we can get this matter eased," concluded Clr. Evans, who hopes the county council's proposed takeover from the police of parking enforcement matters later this year will help solve the problem. Then Clr. Evans hopes the town will have two traffic wardens working two or three days a week. Among those in attendance at Tuesday night's meeting will be Police Sergeant Andy King, Sub Station Officer Paul Morris from Narberth Fire Brigade, Mr. Ian Westley, Pembrokeshire County Council's director of transportation and environment, and representatives of the town's Chamber of Trade. When contacted by the Observer, Police Inspector Les Clark said that he would be represented at the meeting by the local sergeant, Andy King. "Anti-social parking in Narberth is an ongoing problem and needs a multi-agency approach," said the inspector. "I am particularly keen to ensure that dropped kerbs are kept free for those that need to use them, as well as disabled spaces." The meeting is being held at the Queen's Hall at 7 pm. Footnote: Other business to be transacted at the meeting includes the following planning applications: Plot 4, Beechwood Place, Narberth - dwelling with integral garage; and Redcliffe House, Providence Hill, Narberth - erection of one dwelling (outline). A proposed Narberth/Ludlow twinning sign for the town is also on the agenda, as is fixing a date for the proposed meeting with the Environment Agency.
