Penwortham Town Council respond over ‘ownership query’ of The Fleece Inn car park

The Fleece Inn in Liverpool Road is now charging for use of its car park – unless you’re a customer at the pub Pic: Google

Penwortham Town Council has released a statement after queries over whether it had ownership rights over a pub car park.

Residents in Penwortham had been expressing their anger after The Fleece Inn car pub became paid-for from September this year.

The car park used to be free so some would use it when not visiting the pub, however there is now a parking charge system in place.

A spokesperson for Penwortham Town Council said: “In recent weeks, there has been a lot of speculation on social media as to the ownership of the car park at The Fleece Inn, Penwortham.

“Some residents have commented that a portion of the land was once gifted to the public. Some have asked if Penwortham Town Council have a role in managing the parking space, or a part of it.

“We have co-ordinated with the Estates Team at South Ribble Borough Council, who have carried out a thorough check of all available documents.”

They added: “The professional surveyor has reported that there is no mention of any of the land in question being granted or gifted to the people of Penwortham, or a public authority. There is no mention of the public owning the land, nor of it being leased to the people of Penwortham, at any time in the past.

“Penwortham Town Council has no involvement in this matter. The land is privately owned and, to the best of our knowledge, it always has been.”

However, some residents weren’t happy with the response.

One person commented on a Facebook thread in response to the Town Council’s post: “Good clear response that. The Fleece is isolating it isolating itself with this style of enforcement. I think a 30 minute people of grace would be greatly welcomes, allowing us to support the local businesses.

“Enough time to pick up a loaf or prescription etc. It would be appreciated and prevent people boycotting the Fleece as this is becoming apparent now.”

A spokesperson from Greene King, who operate The Fleece, told Blog Preston: “We want to ensure there is always space for our customers to park when they visit us, which is the reason we made the change to the car park in September.

“There is no charge for the parking and customers simply need to enter their vehicle registration number when they arrive in the pub and this is clearly signposted to avoid any confusion.

“We look forward to welcoming our community to the pub this Christmas.”