THE last two editions of the Standard have brought to light the different sides of Cirencester.

Last week, we brought news of the Market Place transformation, finally taking its first steps into the light after almost half a century of waiting.

This week, the issue of parking once again reared its head with traders demanding action in no uncertain terms.

It is the same dichotomy that shackles any market town, ancient narrow streets attract tourists from the world over, but those same streets are not conducive to great big car parks.

In short, space is at a premium.

Tourists are integral to the success of the town but will simply stop coming if they have to battle for a parking space.

A sparkling new market place is positive. An empty sparkling market place is not.

A multi-storey car park, much touted as the solution to our parking woes, could potentially be a money-earner for Cotswold District Council and increased tourism is a boost for the economy.

But the good news is the council is taking action and has committed to finding a solution.

Many fear that, if approved, the 2,350-home Chesterton development will put even more pressure on parking as its distance from the town centre means shoppers would have to drive.

Any resolution on the application will need a commitment to fully scrutinise parking and traffic.