Former Sleaford ambulance station could become car park

A former Sleaford ambulance station is likely to be converted into a car park.

The disused site on Kesteven Street was bought by North Kesteven District Council last year.

It once played host to East Midlands Ambulance Service’s paramedics and emergency vehicles, but concerns were raised about it becoming an anti-social behaviour hotspot after its closure several years ago.

Plans will be discussed by leaders next week to turn it into much-needed car parking for the town centre.

Its fees would be priced slightly cheaper than the neighbouring Eastgate car park to attract drivers before they entered the town’s busy one-way system.

It would be free for up to one hour, and charge £2 for three hours and £4 for any longer.

Parking at weekends, Bank Holidays, and between 6pm and 8am would be free.

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If the proposal is agreed, plans to demolish the existing buildings will be drawn up at a later date.

The council hasn’t determined yet how many parking spaces could be created at the site, which is next to the building housing their own HQ, Sleaford JobCentre and the registration office.

A council report says: “The newly purchased site provides an opportunity to provide much called-for perimeter parking off one of the town’s main arterial routes, close to Sleaford town centre and the NKDC offices.”

It adds that the car park “can serve vehicles prior to them entering the one-way system and therefore helping to address congestion and car dominance of the centre.”

“There are public perceptions and concerns around parking availability in Sleaford and therefore making the site available as soon as possible is thought a practical way to alleviate any possible concerns as well as providing a timely source of income generation.”

The report mentions that there are other possible uses for the site, but this are limited by contamination from years storing fuel and vehicles.

The council has previously held discussions with Lincolnshire County Council about whether another public service could use the site.

In 2020, it was reported that locals were unhappy with drug use and anti-social behaviour at the old building, with some calling for it to be torn down.

The plans will be discussed by the council’s Executive on Thursday, March 27.