Worden Park trader 'furious' over Bonfire Night car park closure

A Worden Park trader said he’s “absolutely furious” over the closure of the car park for today’s Bonfire Night celebrations, warning it risks losing him a day’s trade.

Flock & Skein owner Chris Wilson says the closure risks costing him a full day’s potential trading, despite paying rent to operate at Worden Park all year round.

Chris said: “I’m going to be blunt. I am absolutely furious about the impact this is having on my small business.

“I pay rent to trade at Worden Park for 52 weeks of the year. I have bills to pay, stock tied up on the shelves and a business to run. Yet I’m now facing the loss of a full day’s potential trading because the car park is being closed.

“My rent doesn’t stop for Bonfire Night. My business costs don’t stop. But apparently, my opportunity to trade can.”

The Bonfire Night event is organised by The Leyland Round Table, with vehicle access restrictions in place to support the safe running of the celebrations, with thousands of people expected to attend.

Chris said he understood the importance of health and safety for the charity fundraising event, but questioned the impact on businesses based at Worden Hall.

He said: “We are tenants. We contribute and bring people to the park. We rely on customers being able to access us. Losing a day’s trading is not a minor inconvenience when you’re running a small business.”

Despite his concerns, he confirmed Flock & Skein would remain open from 10am until 4pm as normal. He said customers could still access his shop on foot and urged people not to be deterred by the car park closure.

“I’ll be there, ready to trade, despite the circumstances,” he added. “If you can come along, please do. Your support means more than ever right now.”

Flock and Skein specialises in selling 100% British Wool products. Chris dyes the wool and sources all of their wool farmers himself, so he can personally ensure quality and that the farmers are paid a fair rate.

Council statement

South Ribble Borough Council said pedestrian access to Worden Park, Worden Hall and businesses based within the park would remain available during the event.

Councillor Matthew Farnworth, the council’s cabinet member for parks, events and culture, said the annual bonfire event attracts hundreds of visitors to Worden Park and the Leyland area each year and raises thousands for charity.

He said: “To ensure the safety of everyone attending, vehicular access to the park will be restricted around the event.

“However, pedestrian access via the park’s footpaths will remain available, along with access to Worden Hall and the businesses based within the park.

“A number of these businesses will also remain open during the event, and I would encourage visitors to take the opportunity to support them.”

Coun Farnworth said the council had engaged with traders at an early stage to discuss the event and its potential impact.

He added: “We engaged with traders at an early stage to keep them informed about the event, discuss any potential impacts, and ensure they had the opportunity to raise any concerns.

“Parking passes were also provided for tenants, business owners, and their staff to help maintain access where required.

”I look forward to seeing thousands of people come together to enjoy the park and a spectacular Bonfire Night celebration organised by The Round Table.”