Lib Dems present massive parking petition to Merthyr Council

10.54.53pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 27th May 2009

Local Lib Dems are supporting businesses in Merthyr to campaign for common sense policies

Councillors Amy Kitcher and Bob Griffin have presented a petition containing 820 signatures to Full Council. The petition opposes the introduction of a new parking charge in Lower High Street car park on the grounds it will have a negative impact on the neighbouring businesses.

Amy Kitcher said, "Local shopkeepers are really worried about the effect the introduction of the new charges will have on their businesses. The council says it is trying to help the businesses, but everybody we've spoken to thinks the new charge will turn people away altogether."

Bob Griffin added, "The proposal to impose charges on the currently free car park that serves Lower High Street will raise very little money for the Council but will penalise a number of local businesses that rely on this car park for much of their custom. Imposing parking charges for this car park will act as a disincentive to shoppers wishing to use any of the shops in Lower High Street and will have a detrimental effect on all these businesses, possibly leading to job losses."

Following the submission of the petition, council officers will be bringing a report on the matter to the council's cabinet.