Ely’s latest car park – to be built on a one acre piece of scrubland south east of the former bowling alley at The Dock – is set to be approved by East Cambs Council.

Only two objections were received from 20 businesses nearby who were consulted and they cover loss of privacy, traffic congestion, access, noise and impact on the street scene.

However senior planning officers, in recommending it for approval, believe the additional parking offered far outweighs any disadvantages.

Their conclusion is that it would afford extra parking for rail commuters and they expect little extra congestion since most cars will be parked there through a large period of the day.

Parking for up to 128 vehicles will be provided including eight disabled bays and two would parking spaces will have electrical charging points.

The Environment Agency originally expressed concern since the site is within flood zone 3 but is protected by the Ely Ouse flood defences

“The submitted flood risk assessment would normally be considered inadequate as it has not taken account of the new climate change allowances or the most up to date modelled information,” says a report by planners.

“However due to the nature of the proposed development, the Environment Agency has no objection.”