Motorists baffled by stone chessboard installed in Nottingham parking lot at taxpayers’ expense

The installation of a stone chessboard in a parking lot in Sherwood, Nottingham has left motorists and residents scratching their heads. The board, along with concrete seating, was part of a £17 million upgrade to car parks in Nottingham and Derby, aimed at creating E-Mobility Hubs with EV charging stations and bike racks.

However, locals have criticized the move, calling it a waste of money and a poor use of space. Dad-of-three Philip Towell and his daughter Coco were unimpressed with the new addition, noting its shoddy appearance and lack of chess pieces.

Amanda Riley, who frequents the car park, questioned the logic of installing a chessboard in such an unusual location, pointing out the impracticality of playing chess next to noisy cars. Another resident criticized the board, stating that England’s cold weather makes outdoor chess unappealing.

Critics took to social media to express their frustration, with one user questioning the decision to take up valuable parking spaces with a chess table and bike shed. Another user speculated that the installation was part of a funding boost for the English Chess Federation, calling it a “hare-brained idea.”

Nottingham City Council defended the installation, stating that the tables could be used for various activities, not just chess. They emphasized that the projects are experimental and subject to evaluation and feedback from the public.

Overall, the stone chessboard in the Sherwood parking lot has sparked debate and divided opinions among residents, with some questioning its practicality and others defending its potential for community use.