Commuters will benefit from a new 128-space car park near Ely train station which was opened to residents today.

The new car park, called ‘The Dock’, is next to the old Strikes Bowling Alley in the city.

Councillor Bill Hunt, chairman of the East Cambs District Council asset development committee, said: “This addition will very positively impact on the lives of commuters, not only because they will have a better chance of getting a space, but also because this car park will be significantly cheaper than the station car park.

“We are thrilled to be able to open this car park and look forward to seeing residents making the most of it.”

The new car park includes a raised pedestrian footpath with street lighting, linking the original Angel Drove car park to The Dock, making for a shorter and safer walk to the station.

Cllr Hunt was helped by the Mayor, Councillor Richard Hobbs and Councillor Lis Every to cut the ribbon and officially open the new facility.

They presented the first customer, Sepi Modgham from Chelmer Way, Ely, with a bottle of champagne to mark the occasion.

The development was given unanimous approval by the East Cambridgeshire planning committee earlier this year.