Leader accused of 'sneering' about Ludlow parking proposals

The leader of Shropshire Council has been accused of “sneering” about the proposed parking changes in Ludlow.

Even though a consultation has not yet started, Councillor Heather Kidd is alleged to have told one of the local members that “it’s a done deal”.

Shropshire Council operates a seven-tier banded parking structure based on location, vehicle turnover, and demand.

The most expensive is in the on-street parking areas of Shrewsbury.

However, the ‘red zone’ on-street parking in Ludlow is classed as band two. Therefore, if the proposals are approved, the tariff will go up from £2.80 an hour to £3.80.

The Castle Street car park (band three) would also go up by 60p an hour to £2, with operating hours being extended from 6pm to 8pm.

However, the car parks in Galdeford A, Galdeford B and Smithfield will remain at the current price, while the ‘blue zone’ on-street parking will reduce by 20p an hour. Parking at the Eco Park will also remain free.

The reason behind the proposals is to encourage people away from the more central car parks and to think about using public transport.

But the news has angered many people in Ludlow, not least business people and traders who fear what the impact will have.

Speaking at a Ludlow Town Council (LTC) meeting on Monday (October 26), Matthew Evans, a trustee at Ludlow Assembly Rooms, said extending parking to 8pm will really affect what the venue is trying to – bringing young families and children to use its resources.

“It will really make life that little bit more difficult for us to achieve what we’re trying to do,” said Mr Evans.

Councillor Vivienne Parry, who represents Ludlow South, said she recently had a meeting with Heather Kidd (leader of Shropshire Council) and Rob Wilson (portfolio holder for transport and regeneration).

“I was told that, whether we like it or not, it was going to go through,” said Councillor Parry.

“I was quite annoyed. One of the other councillors who was there said, ‘you can walk to and from Galdeford, it won’t take them long to get there’.

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“Well that is ridiculous with the old people that we have. They said, they’re not putting the prices up there.

“At the moment, we’re paying £12 for four people to go on the park and ride, and £12 to go back.

“We’re gradually being milked in this town. I said that at the meeting, and said it’s a disgrace.  I mentioned about the two hours that they’re putting on, and she [Councillor Kidd] said, ‘it’s only £4 if you’re going for a meal – it’s nothing.

“I have people in my family who go to the brewery, then they get a car to drive into town so they can go for a meal.

“I’m sorry, but she sneered at me and said, ‘I’m sorry, it’s only £4.”

People are so angry that Councillor Darren Childs even proposed a motion of “no confidence” in Shropshire Council.

Councillor Tim Gill said he couldn’t understand how Councillor Wilson could make the proposals when he’s the leader of Shrewsbury Town Council.

“His position in supporting Shrewsbury is clear, and it’s prejudice,” said Councillor Gill.

“I don’t understand how he’s not made a prejudicial declaration because you have a person who is in charge of Shrewsbury [Town Council] making proposals to take money from Ludlow which will favour Shrewsbury. We should call it ‘the Great Shrewsbury Council’ and not Shropshire Council because that’s what it is.”

However, Councillor James Hepworth said that, just having a vote of no confidence is “meaningless”.

“Ludlow Town Council holds a lot of cards and there are a lot of things we want from Shropshire Council other than parking charges to be considered,” he said.

“I think the right thing to do, with the support of [South Shropshire MP] Stuart Anderson is for us to meet and decide on a list of things we desire from Shropshire Council. Because we can offer them a lot of things they can have.”

However, Councillor Kathy Cowell – who labelled the proposals “criminal” said there isn’t enough time, and something needs to be done as soon as possible.

Councillor Pete Addis therefore proposed for a vote of no confidence in Shropshire Council over the handling over the parking issue, and try to get them “at the table” to get a local perspective.

His proposal was seconded by Councillor Stacey Harris.

“We have to stamp our feet and get our voices heard,” said Councillor Harris.

“We’ve got to do something otherwise this town will be shafted.”

Councillor Hepworth still felt that a proper plan needs to be formulated and put forward a counter proposal, asking members to compile a “wish list” of things they want from Shropshire Council.

His proposal was supported by seven members, with three voting against and two abstaining. LTC is now set to arrange an extraordinary meeting to discuss the issue further.

Shropshire Council has been approached for comment.