Leeds Green Party – Penny Stable Councillor
I, as a Green Councillor, am not against parking charges generally, but because Wetherby has no train, will not be getting any form of “mass transit” and has such poor bus connectivity, I believe it could have a devastating effect on the town. My biggest concern is for all those who travel to work in the town, many of whom work in retail and hospitality on low wages, who could not afford the £600 a year parking charge. It will impact their already struggling financial position and may well encourage many to look elsewhere for employment.
This will in turn impact Wetherby businesses, who may well struggle to get enough employees. In addition, they may well be also affected by a reduction in footfall, as people choose to go for their coffee, lunch and shopping to other places where parking is free.
I am pleased to say that due to this “call-in” to the Scrutiny Board, the decision was taken to refer the decision back to officers to reconsider.