WILTSHIRE Council has bowed to people power and less than two weeks after announcing that cashless parking fees were to be introduced into Devizes Market Place have installed a meter.

Many people expressed anger at the council plan to have app-only parking in the area and many complained it would disqualify them from using it.

But without warning at the end of last week a solar powered parking meter was installed by the Market Cross. Fees will come into force today and cost 70p for an hour or £1.30 for £1.30 for two hours.

One of those to hit out at the bid to make drivers use an app was Iain Wallis from Confederation of Small Businesses and he is happy with the about turn.

He said: "I think it is great news that Wiltshire Council have listened to the people of Devizes and made it as easy as possible for everyone to park in the market place.

"The FSB believe that as car parks are often both the first and last contact a visitor has with a town it is vital that they are easy to use and give the right impression.

"I know that some residents have raised concerns over the placing of the pay machine so it is great to hear that it is solar powered and will be easy to move when the final design of the market place is decided upon.

"It is now vital that the town council consult properly with all residents and stakeholders to ensure the new designs fit how the people of the town want to use their market place."

Bridget Wayman, cabinet member for highways said: “We have responded to customer needs, some of whom still prefer to pay by cash, by placing this solar machine in the Market Place in Devizes.

"This is a better fit with Devizes Town Council’s proposals for this important space and this means car park users have more options for payment either by cash or mobile.”

People still have a chance to vote on options for the layout of the Market Place. Go to https://www.devizes-tc.gov.uk/marketplace/188-your-vote-counts