A POOLE MP has hit out at a trial to close an entrance to Poole Park, saying the council has an ‘anti-car agenda’.

The entrance and exit points of the park at Whitecliff Road and Twemlow Avenue are due to close to vehicles from Wednesday, January 17.

The local authority has also launched a public consultation on the trial today.

However, Sir Robert Syms, MP for Poole, said he has received complaints from residents who are upset at the decision.

“The local government doesn’t have to consult, but it’s quite good if they do,” said Sir Robert.

“When you get announcements before a proper consultation, it makes it look as though things have already been decided.”

He added: “I think consultation should be the first thing they do rather than the last thing.”

However, residents are calling for all roads to remain open to vehicles for accessibility and for traffic control.

Sir Robert said: “Whenever I've been there, there's only been a limited amount of traffic coming through.

“There's still a lot of space for people to walk, sit, enjoy the animals and all the other facilities, the wildlife and everything.

“Nobody's ever said to me, this is a big problem for them.

“I think there's a bit of an anti-car agenda, though, I think, with the local authority, and I think it'd be better if they left things as they are.”

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Residents plan to protest the closure at Poole Park on Saturday, January 20 to urge others to vote against the trial through the public consultation.

Sir Robert said he will be attending the event to talk to residents and hear how they feel about the closure.

“People do have a view about what goes on in the park.

“They think the park is quite precious.”

Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy previously said that reducing traffic in Poole Park could benefit both park users and the special wildlife within.

The Daily Echo has approached BCP Council for comment.