Future of Church Stretton parking charges under discussion

Plans to cut car parking charges in Church Stretton, or even abolish them altogether, are to be discussed by town councillors tonight.

A draft parking strategy drawn up by Shropshire Council reveals no plans to charge for on-street parking in Church Stretton.

Now own council members are set to discuss ways of keeping car parks in use in a bid to stop drivers hunting for free spaces.

Cutting the price for short-stay parking or even abolishing charges is also up for discussion.

A public meeting has also been arranged in September by the Church Stretton Area Partnership to discuss the plans.

John Sumner, deputy chairman of the group, said: "If there is one topic that can be relied upon to attract heated discussion in Church Stretton, it is that of parking.

"There are many issues residents and businesses of Church Stretton and the surrounding area need to consider.

"While it is not proposed to charge for on-street parking, the aim is to encourage drivers to head straight for the car parks and not 'hunt' for on-street free space.

"It is, therefore, offering the possibility of free or very low cost off-street parking for the first 30 minutes," he added.

Under the plans, Shropshire's market towns will be split into different categories regarding parking.

Ludlow will be subject to both on-street and off-street parking charges, Church Stretton will have off-street charges only, while parking in Cleobury Mortimer, Craven Arms and Bishop's Castle will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

More information on the draft parking strategy can be found at www.churchstretton.co.uk