WINSFORD railway station’s limited parking facilities have been given a much needed boost after the Brighton Belle pub agreed to use their car park as an overspill.

The station’s limited parking facilities have long been a bone of contention for Winsford Town Council and its constituents.

From early November, travellers will be able to park on the newly refurbished pub’s car park, so long as they display a permit that must be returned to the pub on their exit.

A spokesman for Brighton Belle said: “Following discussions with Winsford Council, we are currently looking to implement a system whereby a limited number of our parking spaces will be available to commuters.

“As a key member of the local community, we know all about the problems people regularly encounter when trying to park at the station.

“We are therefore happy to lend a helping hand where we can.”

London Midland, who are responsible for much of the up-keep and running of Winsford station, are aiming for the new parking arrangements this month.

They have said they will review the situation after three months.

The train operating company have also agreed to allow the 37 bus into the forecourt of the station to help reduce pressure on car parking.

David Whitley, London Midland’s Head of Regional Services, said: “Improving bus links is a great way to reduce pressure on car parking at the station.

“And bringing the 37 bus into the forecourt will not only make it much easier to get into town, but create a new half-hourly connection with Middlewich, too.”

Clr Pam Booher, Labour representative for Gravel Ward has welcomed the news to use Brighton Belle as an overspill, after raising the issue earlier this year.

She said: “It really is a big problem as we haven’t got a very big car park at the station.

“We went to Brighton Belle to negotiate with them and they gave us the go ahead for the overspill on their car park.

“We’ll be making life for the Station Road residents far more pleasant. It will be good for the whole area.”