15 July 2026
I welcome investment in Buxton and recognise the need to improve the town centre. However, I have significant concerns about aspects of the current proposals and hope these will be carefully considered before any decision is made. My primary concern is the proposed changes to town centre parking. Buxton is a market and tourist town serving a large rural catchment area. Many residents, visitors and shoppers rely on travelling by car because public transport is limited, particularly from surrounding villages. Convenient parking is essential to the vitality of the town centre and the success of local businesses. Although replacement parking is proposed elsewhere, I am not convinced it will offer the same level of convenience or accessibility as existing provision. Relocating parking further from the main shopping streets is likely to discourage older visitors, families with young children, people with disabilities and those making shorter shopping trips. At a time when our high streets are already facing significant challenges, reducing convenient access risks driving shoppers to retail parks or neighbouring towns instead. I would also like to see the regeneration place much greater emphasis on supporting independent businesses and local entrepreneurs. Buxton's strength lies in its individuality. Rather than creating a town centre that feels similar to many others, this project should provide opportunities for boutique retailers, artisan businesses, independent cafés and local markets. These are the experiences that visitors increasingly seek and are a key reason people choose to spend time and money in Buxton. Tourism is one of Buxton's most important economic assets. Visitors come because Buxton is a unique Victorian spa town with a rich history, beautiful architecture and a distinctive atmosphere. The regeneration should reinforce this identity rather than risk diluting it. Successful place-making builds upon what makes a town special, rather than introducing features that could belong in almost any modern development. [Page 2] Having read many of the comments submitted by other residents, I find myself agreeing with much of the public concern regarding parking, the potential impact on local businesses and the importance of protecting Buxton's identity. I support regeneration that improves Buxton, but I urge the Council to ensure the scheme protects convenient town centre parking, strengthens opportunities for independent businesses and preserves the qualities that make Buxton such an attractive place to live, work and visit.