A Lincoln garden centre could benefit from a 500-space car park for a planned temporary park and ride service.

Lincolnshire County Council says a planning application for the car park, at Whisby Garden Centre next to the A46 bypass, has been submitted, to cater for the anticipated surge in traffic created by this year’s Magna Carta 800th anniversary celebrations.

The service could start in April and run for up to three years, with a review after 12 months. It could pave the way for a permanent facility in the future.

Councillor Richard Davies said a shuttle bus would run from Whisby to Lincoln Castle, taking some of the pressure off city centre routes. “The facility is on-track to be ready in time for next April's opening, and we’ll be able to share further details once final arrangements have been agreed," he added.

A new £22m centre at Lincoln Castle will be the centrepiece of the proposed Magna Carta programme, which is expected to attract 100,000 visitors.

"We have applied for permission for three years as we have a world class facility and not everyone will be able to see it this summer,” said Cllr Davies.  The scheme would provide some indication of the best place for a park and ride and the potential demand.

The Highways Agency has objected to the plan because of “a lack of information”.