Elton John concert venue will have four mile parking exclusion zone

CONCERT-GOERS attending this summer's Sir Elton John gig in Shrewsbury will be banned from parking in residential areas within four miles of the venue, council officials said today.

Shropshire Council said motorists will be stopped from parking close to the Greenhous Meadow Stadium in Oteley Road on June 12 when the legendary singer arrives for his first concert in the town.

About 17,000 people are expected to attend the event at Shrewsbury Town FC's ground but council officials are warning people they should not even be dropped off or picked up by cars in residential areas near the stadium.

Shrewsbury Town and the council have now released details of the available car parking options for concert-goers.

A statement reads: "As part of the traffic management strategy a section of Oteley Road will be closed to general and through traffic for the duration of the event and enforceable on-street parking restrictions will be in force in all surrounding residential areas within approximately a four-mile radius of the stadium. Concert-goers will not be able to park in these areas and walk to the event. It should also be noted that these areas should not be used for picking up friends or relatives leaving the concert.

"Arrangements are in place for local residents' parking exemptions but all concert ticket holders, travelling to the concert by car, are strongly advised to purchase a car parking ticket prior to the concert date.

"Parking passes are now available for purchase at £8 per car, guaranteeing a parking space at one of the many 'Park and Walk' sites within 10 minutes walking distance of the stadium."

Blue badge holders getting a lift to the concert must bring their blue badge with them. Anyone who has bought a hospitality option, which includes a parking space at the stadium, but intends to be dropped off, will also need to bring their parking pass to be able to pass the road closure.

For details visit www.shropshire.gov.uk

By Russell Roberts