Two Bushey councillors have launched a petition to stop the axing of free car parking in Bushey.
Councillors Paul Morris OBE and Seamus Quilty have launched the petition following Hertsmere Borough Council’s decision to increase tariffs at its car parks.
The changes, agreed by the council in a meeting on Wednesday, February 28, will mean motorists will no longer be able to park for free for the first hour at Kemp Place and Bushey Country Club car parks.
Cllr Morris said: “This issue is not just about money; it’s about preserving the character and accessibility of our town.”
Council leaders, however, say the revenue from the tariffs will prevent cuts to public services following a reduction in funding from the government.
Bushey St James Lib Dem councillor Chris Shenton said: “It was actually the previous Conservative administration which decided to end the two Bushey exemptions to create a fairer system. The Conservatives have now brazenly launched a petition against their own policy.”
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden CBE, MP for Hertsmere, said: “We should be encouraging residents to visit the High Street, not deter them.”
You can view the petition at www.t.ly/4QdfT
Photo credit: Oliver Dowden MP
Who is looking after Bushey and Hertsmere now! For years we kept a free hour for residents using our local shops. It is vital that we support the shops in Bushey Heath and Bushey Village. After only a few months we are seeing unpopular decisions being made by the Labpur/Liberal council. They must look after our local businesses and take care of pur residents.
We need as much footfall on our High Streets more than ever. Whilst raising revenue is important for the Council, there appear to be funds being wasted by the current Council leadership such as Council tax refund gimmicks!