Parking fees opposed

Jan 24 2008 by Jez Davison, Evening Gazette

ANGRY Stokesley firms have called on Hambleton District Council to scrap proposals for new parking charges in the town.

Although modest, at just 20p per hour, they say it will deter shoppers and harm business. The issue was top of the agenda at the first Stokesley Business Club meeting, held at the town hall on Tuesday, which attracted 62 business representatives.

Economic development officer for the council, Kirsty McGready, who attended the event, said the club would be included in the consultation on parking fees, which could be introduced this summer. A spokesperson blamed Government capping of its council tax for forcing it to recoup revenue elsewhere.

Amanda Taylor, principal of Taylors Chartered Acccountants, who has worked in the town for 10 years and set up her own business in October, said businesses and residents were opposed to the proposals.

The club has introduced a free online forum for members to exchange views.