The Norton-in-Hales Community Car Park was formally opened by Mrs Anna Turner, the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire, at midday on Thursday 28th April. Mrs Turner was welcomed by Peter Eardley, Chairman of the Parish Council. The opening was attended by representatives of the Council, Tony Neil from the Hinds Head, Andrew Richards from A.R. Richards, and some 80 village residents. Mrs Turner congratulated Peter, the Directors of the Hinds Head and all others involved in creating this car park, especially against the challenges presented by COVID. Mrs. Turner grew up locally in Betton and joined everybody in the Hinds Head for refreshments after the cutting the ribbon and completing the opening.
The car park is already being used quite extensively and the effects on the village are apparent with less congestion, greater speed awareness and, as a result, improved safety in the village. These effects are enhanced by the voluntary adoption of a one-way, circular route through the village during School opening (8,45 to 9am) and closing times (2.45 to 3pm), down Main Road past the school, left up Bellaport Road, left into Beswick Lane, left into Chapel Lane, back to Main Road. It would be very much appreciated if all villagers also followed this route during these times.
The electric car charging points and lighting will be working as soon as the PC can find an energy source willing to supply electricity at a reasonable cost and sensible usage targets. This is proving extremely difficult in the current energy supply crisis.
