ORGANISERS of the funfair at Barnard Castle Meet say they plan a much bigger range of attractions at next year’s event after coming in for criticism from residents and traders.
The main town centre car park, which is operated by Durham County Council, was closed from 6pm on Wednesday, May 24, and reopened on Tuesday, May 30.
However, the funfair rides only covered a small part of the car park, with dozens of unused spaces being cordoned off during one of the busiest weekends of the year in the town.
Only traffic servicing the Morrisons supermarket and other businesses bordering the car park was allowed through.
Alex Crow, of operators Crow Leisure Group, said it had been a quieter year for the funfair this time round, but described it as a successful visit.
“A lot of our rides are in the Middle East,” he said.
“Even so, this is bigger than it used to be. We have been coming here for years and we used to only bring the waltzer.
“Next year, we would like to put on more entertainment as well as the rides to attract visitors. We would like to fill the full space.”
However, some traders say the funfair has had its time, while others took to social media to air their views.
Owner of The Orchard grocery shop, in Horsemarket, Perry Clifton, said “It's a complete waste of time.
“It gets less and less each year.
“There were 60-80 spaces cordoned off unnecessarily.”
Adrian Andrews, from Star Yard Cobblers, added: “We were forced to shut on Saturday due to a lack of parking.
“It's the biggest car park in Barnard Castle and they took all the spaces on the busiest weekend.”
Although the funfair can operate until 10pm, the rides were closed early due to a lack of footfall.
Other attractions on Meet weekend included live music, bar and food along with games and rides for children on the lower Demesnes on Sunday and Monday.
DJ Tom Howe, who was MC of the live music said he was disappointed by the funfair over the weekend.
He said “It always used to be extended throughout the car park.
“Now it only fills half the area and it's a very poor showing.”
Two shows at The Witham, one featuring folk stars Jez Lowe, Bob Fox and Julie Matthews and the other with rock legends Dr Feelgood each attracted more than 150 people who were unable to use the car park.
Centre Director Amy Hughes said: “We have received a number of complaints from our customers due to the lack of easy parking. This includes our regular café customers and people who were attending the gigs over the weekend.”
