Winchester: Farley Mount car parks could be closed

A letter seen by the Echo has revealed plans to reduce the number of parking spots at Farley Mount near Winchester.

It states that some car parks will be closed in a trial because professional dog walkers are "deterring" residents from using the land.

"Previous landlords have, through their good intentions, allowed the opening up of numerous car parks at the site which have clearly, but unintentionally, made Farley Mount a destination venue for visitors from far and wide," says the letter, written by chairman of Hursley Parish Council, Cllr David Killeen.

"One particular issue (...) is the regular use of the land by professional dog walking businesses. Not only are commercial activities such as this not permitted to take place at Farley Mount under the terms of the current lease, but the consequences of this use are hugely detrimental in terms of both the mess that is left behind, and the ability for others to use and enjoy the site whilst large volumes of dogs run loose.

"The landlord has received numerous comments from local people that the numbers of professional dog walkers using this site is actively deterring local people from visiting the site."

It adds: "The plan is to initially trial a couple of car park closures."

The land in question is owned by South Lynch Estate and managed by Hampshire County Council alongside the Forestry Commission.

It is unclear which car parks will be closed during the trial.

County councillor Edward Heron seemed to contradict the letter in his statement to the Echo, saying full consultation is necessary before making any changes.

He said: "We are working closely with the landowners of Farley Mount and the Forestry Commission to look into concerns about issues relating to an increased level of use at this site.

"These conversations are still at an exploratory stage about possible solutions and no decisions have been made. Any future proposals for change would need full consultation with the local community, including the parish council. "This is a popular walking spot and we want to work with the local community to ensure it can meet the needs of all users, including dog walkers, whilst preserving and protecting the natural environment.”

George Rees of South Lynch Estate added: "“In regards to Farley Mount the landowner and the council have been discussing how it can be best managed going forward to limit the damage that is being suffered to the site from increased amounts of use.

"These discussions are ongoing, but a solution needs to be found to address ongoing damage and the financial and ecological cost of maintaining the site for future enjoyment.”

County and former Winchester city councillor Jan Warwick said she is concerned that vehicles will end up parking on verges.

She said: "I’m am sure Hampshire County Council would consult with the public before making any changes to the car parks. I would be concerned about vehicles parking on the verges and causing more damage and congestion."