A SUPPORTER of parking meters has blasted objectors’ claims that they will damage business as “ludicrous and completely wrong”.

Peter Davies, of Dangan Road, Wanstead, hailed the incoming pay-and-display system in the High Street following a controversial consultation.

Opponents of the new pay-and-display system believe high street traders will lose out because shoppers will be out off by the restrictions.

The 69-year-old expressed frustration at his perception that the voices of anti-pay-and-display residents were given more prominence.

“It just seems unfair.  I find it incredible that they’re making a case that meters would be bad for business. That’s ludicrous and completely wrong. I can’t see that argument.

“I can’t understand what their position is on it. It’s such a beneficial and fantastically democratic thing. Some streets voted for it and that still applies.

“If the majority don’t want it they won’t get it. It seems to me that there are some people who aren’t happy with anything are objecting for the sake of it.

“It’s not taking into account the people who think it’s beneficial. The alternative argument isn’t being made.”

South Woodford’s pay-and-display system allows shoppers to do what they need to, Mr Davies argued.

“In practice the system works. I use the same meters in South Woodford and every single time I can always park up there. I’m out the car for 10 minutes and I’m away. I think it would work for the high street.”

Shoppers with difficulties moving “are catered for” and will still be able to use the services.

“The limited spaces available would be well used. Disabled people are catered for and there are no reasons why they can’t go into existing spaces,” Mr Davies predicted.

Mr Davies praised the former Conservative-led council for introducing the pay-and-display on Dangan Road, despite not being a Tory voter.

“I’m not a Tory voter but the Tory council introduced restrictions in our area and they are fantastic. Residents are pleased with how it’s turned out. We don’t have commuters parking down here anymore.”

Before restrictions were introduced four years ago, the parking situation on Dangan Road was “horrific”, Mr Davies said.

“Before the changes anyone could park here. From half seven in the morning people would leave their cars and walk up to the tube station. That was horrific for us around here. You had to park in a neighbouring street.”

Restrictions meant only residents could park on the road from Monday to Friday.

Residents in areas like Aldersbrook not only want the system, Mr Davies asserted, but are not being heard and fear drivers from Newham will come to the area because of the borough’s parking restrictions.

Last month, protestors from the We Want Say campaign presented a petition, signed by more than 1,000 residents opposing the new measures, to Redbridge Council.

Opponents fear the High Street will deteriorate environmentally and drivers’ safety will be compromised.

“A lot of people would benefit from parking restrictions,” Mr Davies concluded.