Petition Calls for Council to Rethink Parking Charges at City Park
Coventry council faces backlash over proposed parking fees at War Memorial Park
Coventry, War Memorial Park, Parking Charges, Council, Petition
Coventry: The council is facing pressure to rethink its decision on parking fees. They plan to end free parking at War Memorial Park. Opposition councillors say this move is unfair and illogical. Many locals agree, feeling the charges will hurt park users.
The Labour-led council believes the fees could save £150,000 each year. They want to match parking fees at Coombe Abbey country park. However, nearly 1,500 people have signed a petition against these charges.
The petition claims the fees will hit vulnerable groups hard. It could also scare away visitors and worsen local traffic. Andrew Walster, the Director of City Services, said they don’t make budget decisions lightly.
He mentioned that maintaining the park costs the council about £700,000 yearly. They are trying to find £30 million in savings agreed upon last year. Now, they need to find an extra £11 million.
Some commenters feel the council should charge for parking at all parks. Others argue that if they impose fees, drivers will just park on nearby streets. There are concerns about the impact on local sports teams that use the park.
Many believe the council should focus on collecting unpaid council tax instead. Others suggest cutting costs on unused cycle lanes. The debate continues as residents voice their opinions on the proposed charges.