As a small business owner in Ashton u Lyne for 24 years, I am deeply concerned about the impending car parking charge hike set to take effect on 2 August 2023. This petition aims to urge Tameside Council to reconsider this decision and protect our local businesses, jobs, and livelihoods.

Ashton u Lyne is on the brink of a significant redevelopment of Market Square, thanks to an impressive £20 million Levelling Up Funding award. This exciting opportunity has the potential to revitalize our town and attract more visitors. However, implementing exorbitant car parking charges at this stage will only deter people from coming here and hinder our progress.

Let me share my personal story as a small business owner. Over the years, I have witnessed first hand how crucial accessible and affordable parking is for both customers and employees. It ensures that people can conveniently visit local shops, cafes, hair and beauty salons ....all contributing to our vibrant community.

The proposed increase in car parking fees is alarming. For instance, a simple visit to the hairdressers that currently costs £2 in parking charges could skyrocket up to £9! Such steep charges are simply not sustainable for part-time workers or individuals who rely on affordable services.

It's essential for Tameside Council to recognize that these excessive car parking fees will have severe consequences for our local economy. Small businesses like mine heavily depend on foot traffic generated by customers who can park their vehicles without breaking their bank accounts.

To support my concerns with concrete evidence:

1) A study conducted by The Federation of Small Businesses found that high parking charges lead to a decrease in footfall by up to 30%. This decline directly impacts sales revenue and puts jobs at risk.
(Source: The Federation of Small Businesses)

2) Research from Transport Focus indicates that nearly half of shoppers consider free or cheap parking as a significant factor when deciding where to shop. By implementing exorbitant charges, we risk losing potential customers to neighboring towns with more affordable parking options.
(Source: Transport Focus)

I implore Tameside Council to reconsider this decision and find alternative solutions that support our local businesses and the community. We need a fair and sustainable car parking system that encourages visitors, boosts our economy, and safeguards jobs.

By signing this petition, you are standing up for small business owners like me, part-time workers struggling to make ends meet, and the overall prosperity of Ashton U Lyne. Together, let's urge Tameside Council to cancel the massive hike in car parking charges before it's too late!

ACT NOW!…If these extortionate charges will affect you in any way make no mistake these changes will happen on 2 August…Sign the petition and send a strong message to Tameside Council that this is not acceptable!

Thank you for your support!