Recently it was revealed that Bath and North East Somerset Council are proposing the introduction of hourly car parking charges in Midsomer Norton and Radstock. We understand that the budget setting process is never an easy one and difficult decisions need to be made, but we strongly believe this proposal will have a negative impact on local businesses and add even more cost onto residents who are already struggling due to the cost-of-living crisis. 

Our High Streets were fighting to survive during lockdown, so to introduce these charges now would have a catastrophic effect on the Somer Valley by disincentivising residents from shopping local. We believe that the Council should be supporting our High Streets by actively investing in and promoting their renewal – not accelerating their decline.

The Lib Dem Cabinet member for resources argued recently that the charges would be 'modest' and that there is a problem with individuals 'parking all day', but we do not share this analysis and can only predict a greater loss in footfall. There has never been an issue with parking availability in either Midsomer Norton or Radstock, which is one of the reasons our High Street has remained successful, so this argument just doesn't stack up.

Please sign if you believe these proposals should be dropped, as our High Streets, the businesses on them, and the residents who choose to shop local vitally need the support of the Council more than ever.