CHINGFORD: Thousands sign parking petition (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

CHINGFORD: Thousands sign parking petition

11:41am Friday 9th May 2008 in

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THOUSANDS of angry shoppers and traders have objected to increased parking charges made by the local authority.

Chingford traders believe that since the cost of parking was doubled at the beginning of April from 50p for an hour, to 50p for 30 minutes, shoppers have been spending less time perusing the shops in Station Road to save on parking charges.

A petition of more than 3,000 names was presented at the full council meeting calling for Waltham Forest Council to take note of their objections and requesting justification for a price hike well above inflation.

Mike Jukes, sales manager at JJ Lighting in Station Road, said at the meeting: "I find it difficult to believe that the cost of enforcement has doubled. How can the council justify these charges?

"People are buying 30-minute vouchers which makes them rush. If it becomes too expensive they will simply shop elsewhere. Shoppers will disappear, the shops may close and make the area less desirable and more shops may close, which will result in a loss of jobs.

"Retail already has difficulties as we now we have more supermarkets, people buying goods on the internet and a credit crunch and economic crisis predicted."

Mr Jukes' speech was met with applause, but he said he will have to wait and see whether the council listens.

He said after the meeting: "It seemed to generate a rousing applause and I hope we have the support of the council.

"We will give the council the opportunity to respond and if it is unsatisfactory, we will speak to local councillors and get advice on the next step to get our views heard."

The new parking charges introduced in April are 50p to park for 30 minutes, £1 for one hour and £5 for a daily voucher.