Traders in a busy Cardiff high street feel they are being ignored by the council, which looks set to scrap free parking in residential shopping areas. The council says the decision is in light of “one of the most challenging” budget positions it has ever faced, but business owners say their petitions to reverse the cuts are being ignored.
The plans would see the free window usually one or two hours for visitors to some of the city’s high streets scrapped, with drivers instead being charged as soon as they park. Respondents to a consultation on the changes were split almost 50:50 on whether they were a good or bad plan.
The Cowbridge Road East Traders’ Association, represented by Laura’s Greengrocers, Zero Plus Fish and Chips, and Calabrisella, delivered their petition to the council along with others across the city but were left frustrated after online signatures on Change.org were not counted. Zohaib Hussain, chairman of the association, expressed their disappointment, saying, “I have not seen one business that supports this policy change.”
Mr. Hussain further mentioned that some business owners were deeply upset by the prospect of charging for parking, with some even “bawling their eyes out.” The concern is that customers may opt for retail parks with free parking instead, creating an unfair advantage for those locations.
Multiple petitions, both paper and online, were circulated to protest against the cuts to free parking. However, a council officer confirmed that online petitions did not constitute valid signatures, resulting in discrepancies in the number of signatures considered valid.
The council spokesperson explained that the removal of free parking in residential areas is part of challenging budget decisions and aims to encourage alternative modes of transport. The surplus income from charging will be reinvested into improving public transport, walking, and cycling facilities across the city.
In response, Mr. Hussain emphasized the businesses’ united stance against the policy change and criticized the council for not listening to their concerns. He highlighted past instances where businesses were not consulted effectively, citing a lack of acknowledgment for their viewpoints.
The contentious issue raises questions about the balance between supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable transport options. With tensions high and business owners feeling unheard, the outcome of this debate could have significant implications for Cardiff’s commercial landscape.