Say NO to proposed Parking Charges on Sunday and in the evenings.
I fully understand the need for Somerset Council to raise money, however, I am concerned about the negative economic impact these draconian changes will have on Taunton’s long suffering residents, retailers and our evening economy.
This ill-conceived proposal will also have a negative effect on people’s physical and mental health.
Using Fons George car park in Vivary Park, Taunton as an example: On Sunday and in the summer evenings, the car park is full of church goers, shoppers and walkers. Golf, Tennis and Bowls players. People meeting for coffee and a chat, or simply sitting on a bench reading. Parents take their kids to the park to take advantage of the fabulous playground facilities and an ice cream of course. Many people park and stroll into town for lunch or visit one of our many restaurants, pubs and to enjoy the variety of entertainment available at local clubs such as The Lawns and the Creative Innovation Centre in the evenings. A popular Pilates class also takes place in the fresh air on a Sunday morning in Wilton lands.
We are trying to attract people to Taunton, if charging is introduced on Sunday and in the evenings, I fear they will not come. There’s an argument to say they’d all use the Park & Ride, cycle or walk, however, in the real world they want to drive and take advantage of the current free parking, particularly on Sunday. Losing this will hugely affect Taunton’s already fragile economy.
If you (Somerset Council) must persist with this, could I please ask that before a decision is made, you hold a proper public consultation and base your proposal upon what’s right for Somerset and our under pressure council tax payers.
Take care, stay safe,
John
