Last night, Conservative members at ESBC questioned the recent decision by Labour to hike car parking fees and eliminate the "Free After Three" scheme, where carparks become free after 3 pm. The concern stems from a suspicion that the data driving these changes was skewed, primarily focusing on fee increases without considering the repercussions on residents, shoppers, retailers, and even vulnerable groups like the disabled.
Conservative Councillors stepped in to call for a closer examination of the decision, urging careful consideration of the consequences. However, their efforts were met with resistance from Labour counterparts who blocked open debate and attempted to rush through the decision without allowing elected Councillors to voice their concerns.
Is this truly what the people voted for? The aftermath: come April, fees are set to surge by over 37%, and the well-used "Free After Three" discount will become a thing of the past. We will continue to advocate for a more inclusive and transparent decision-making process that considers the needs of the entire community.
