Thank you for your interest in this story
To continue reading this article, subscribe to the Stray Ferret for as little as £1 a week
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
08
Jun 2020
Last Updated: 08/06/2020
Independent Harrogate 'very disappointed' as parking charges restart
He said that free parking would make a "huge difference" to businesses in Harrogate. Many of which are reopening for the first time on June 15, the same time charges come back into force.
A group representing independent businesses in Harrogate has voiced its disappointment over the restarting of parking charges.
William Woods, on behalf of Independent Harrogate, said he had previously told the council to help retailers by delaying the reintroduction of charges.
He said that free parking would make a "huge difference" to businesses in Harrogate. Many of which are reopening for the first time on June 15, the same time charges come back into force.
"We wanted a grace period to help businesses to get back on their feet. We need to do all we can to get visitors back into the town centre. I thought that free parking would send a strong message."
Read more:
Since the start of the lockdown enforcement officers have only targeted dangerous and obtrusive parking but that will change on June 15.
The measures will come into force for both on-street and off-street parking. North Yorkshire County Council is urging people to exercise social distancing when parking and paying to park.
Harrogate BID response to parking charges
Harrogate BID has been more welcoming to the reintroduction of parking charges but said that the change needed to be communicated well.
Sara Ferguson, acting chair, said: “I can see why the County Council is doing this, as it will ensure there is turnover in spaces when shops reopen, but it needs to be communicated loud and clear, so no one is caught unaware. We need to ensure that at the same time traffic wardens are back patrolling the streets, the town’s car parks are re-opened and properly signposted.”
0