Important Car Park to Close Indefinitely

Published on: 17 Jan, 2025
Updated on: 17 Jan, 2025

Victoria Way car park Google Street View

By Chris Caulfield

local democracy reporter

An “important” town centre car park will close for the “foreseeable future”.

Victoria Way car park in Woking Town Centre will shut on Friday, February 14 following a structural review that raised the need for significant repairs.

The bankrupt borough council has stressed its closure is not due to the presence of dangerous crumbly RAAC concrete but to do with the associated upkeep and repair costs.

The Victoria Way car park has space for about 932 cars and was open round the clock.

Woking Borough Council is advising people to use the newer Victoria Place car park – built as part of the town centre’s regeneration – instead.

No decision has yet been formally made as to the future of the Victoria Way car park, according to a statement issued by the council.

Cllr Dale Roberts

Cllr Dale Roberts (Lib Dem, St John’s), deputy leader and portfolio holder for finance and economy, said: “Victoria Way car park has been an important facility for many years, and while the structure remains safe, it is necessary to close the car park for the foreseeable future.

“The decision reflects a careful consideration of the car park’s condition and the associated implications of maintaining it.

“We are committed to taking a pragmatic approach to the car park’s future, considering the cost implications, future maintenance requirements and the evolving parking needs of the town.

“In the meantime, we are working closely with permit holders to provide alternative parking arrangements in our town centre car parks and appreciate residents’ understanding as we progress with evaluating the future of this site.”

The car park’s structural condition is said to not pose a risk to public safety but the inspection report recommends its closure until “substantial repairs are undertaken”.

These, the statement said, would involve “considerable costs and ongoing maintenance liabilities”.

A Woking Borough Council spokesperson said that they would be working “with consultants to evaluate the extent of repairs required, associated costs and future demand for parking in Woking Town Centre”.

Victoria Way car park permit holders will be offered alternative parking.

Once closed, drivers will have the weekend to remove their cars ahead of a full closure beginning Monday February 17.