500 sign Market Drayton parking petition
More than 500 people have signed a petition against proposed changes to car parking in a town.
Under proposals by Shropshire Council some parking charges would increase, Market Drayton's only free car park in Newport Road by the town's swimming pool would become chargeable and the 15-minute 'pop and shop' scheme would finish.
In addition, currently motorists can park for free from 6pm to 8am across the county in designated bays but this will change to 8pm to 9am.
Mike Smith, a resident in the town, started the petition last week due to his concerns about the proposed changes.
A total of 527 people have already signed the petition.
Tracy Parker-Bowen, from Market Drayton, said: "These charges will make Market Drayton a ghost town, as no one will want to visit."
Sam Warren, from Ollerton, said: "I disagree with the increased charges; it will affect the town more.
"Why do we have to pay for everything nowadays as if fuel prices aren't high enough?
"If these changes are brought in I will reconsider where I shop. Newport is free and it is just as far for me to go as Drayton."
Mr Smith, who started the petition, said: "Small towns with a struggling retail business see this as the final nail in the coffin.
"Some shops are already struggling with high rents, poor facilities and a diminishing footfall - they now have to contend with the latest money making plans which could see their livelihoods disappear completely.
"Our town is already crumbling thanks to Shropshire Council’s lack of concern for traders in our small towns. Please don't allow these proposals to go through. Please show your support now."
Market Drayton's short-stay car parks on Frogmore Road and Queen Street currently charge 50p for one hour, 90p for two hours and £1.30 for a maximum stay of three hours.
Under the new proposals motorists will pay 50p per hour and be allowed to park without a maximum stay limit.
Towers Lawn car park which is currently 10p for two hours, 50p for four hours, £1 four six hours and £1.80 for 10 hours, would increase to 30p per hour.
To sign the petition, go to change.org/p/shropshire-council-throw-out-proposed-changes-and-increases-to-market-drayton-car-parks
