The owners of the Rye market have permanently closed the access gate leading to the veterinary practice and the rear of Rye Baptist church. A notice from the vets on the gate reads "Due to circumstances beyond our control we no longer have use of this access. Please use the access from Cinque Ports Street. We apologise to clients for any inconvenience caused."
It is understood by Rye News that the access to the rear of the Cinque Ports pub will be similarly closed later this year in October, when the current licence expires.
Because of the very narrow turning off Cinque Ports Street down a restricted width passage, the closure to the vet's premises will cause considerable inconvenience both to customers and suppliers. Many pet owner car-drivers are worried about negotiating this turning and visibility on exit is hazardous requiring utmost caution.
There is a problem too for wide-bodied vehicles attempting delivery, particularly for supplies of liquid gas. An Air Products lorry obstructed Cinque Ports Street for some time last week in trying to gain access.
The reason for the closure actions has not been publicly stated, but it maybe that it is because of some drivers abusing the hospitality of the market car-park by evading payment. One person associated with an affected business, who does not wish to be named, commented that the closure is to be regretted, but it had become necessary in today's age where the behaviour of a few spoils the convenience of the many.
