Ludlow Sunday parking fee vote sparks outrage
The decision to introduce on-street Sunday parking charges in Ludlow has been met with outrage by some townspeople who claim the move could kill a special day.
Council chiefs met in Shirehall yesterday and passed the controversial scheme, also being introduced in Shrewsbury, which could rake in £30,000 a year for the authority's coffers.
The decision will introduce on-street Sunday parking charges from January 20 where Monday to Saturday charging is already in place.
Shropshire Council says the revenue will help to fund Park and Ride services, with any surplus cash used to subsidise local buses.
But some local businesses and residents have lambasted the move and believe the authority has ignored their wishes.
Rai Fisher, from Roses and Fishes in Broad Street, said: "The wishes of most people and businesses in Ludlow have been ignored.
"I hope people will continue to fight this. This should not be allowed to go through. It's outrageous and will kill Ludlow.
"Parking in Ludlow has been a hugely mismanaged and an emotive subject for a very long time. Many surveys have been carried out and completely ignored. As an example a meeting was held recently and included representation from the churches, Ludlow Castle, the town council,
Ludlow Chamber of Commerce, Ludlow Business Guild, restaurants, pubs, cafés, several businesses and market traders, and residents.
"Astonishment was expressed when it became clear that the cabinet still recommended to proceed with this parking introduction although a significant majority of those consulted were opposed."
She added: "Sunday in Ludlow was celebrated by a huge number of people. The town buzzes and there is not that nagging feeling of 'when does the meter run out?' People enjoy the one day of relaxation. That will now change."
