Skip to content

Increased parking charges will 'close businesses'

Alex PopeNorthamptonshire
News imageBBC A car park tariff sign in Northampton, showing prices and information. There is a building behind the sign, and traffic cones on the ground to the right and one to the left. There is also a large tree to the right. BBC
Car parks across Northampton could have their rates increased

Residents in a town say planned increases to car parking charges will force businesses to close.

Taylor Cowley-Coulton started an online petition to stop West Northamptonshire Council's proposals to raise fees and remove concessions for blue badge holders for Northampton. It has gathered more than 1,100 signatures.

The council said it would "consider and discuss" the draft proposals at a full council meeting later.

It had already reversed plans to remove free parking in Brackley, Towcester and Daventry, but will also debate ending the two hours of free parking offered in Northampton at weekends.

News imageThe top of a parking machine in a car park with three signs above it showing where to pay, where the Mount Baths are and what car park it is. The box is mostly white in colour with a sticker on it to the left. Another machine is to the left. A number of trees, without leaves on, are behind the machines.
The decision on the increase will be made at a full council meeting on Thursday

The petition says the increase "hits close to home for both our businesses and residents" and it could lead to fewer customers visiting the town.

"Businesses, the lifeblood of our local economy, will suffer significantly," it states.

"This will push businesses to close, which in turn will affect employment rates and the overall vibrancy of our town."

Cowley-Coulton said the changes could "lead to a further deterioration of our town", adding that Northampton residents should not be treated differently from those in neighbouring areas.

She questioned how it was fair for Daventry, Towcester, and Brackley to continue to have free parking but not Northampton.

"Town is already looking run-down - this will kill it", she added.

News imageLaura Coffey/BBC James Hill, standing outside, wearing a burgundy tie, lilac patterned shirt, and dark grey suit with a waistcoat. He has a badge on his lapel and a lanyard round his neck. He has very short dark hair and is smiling and looking straight at the camera. Laura Coffey/BBC
James Hill said he has spoken out against the planned increases

James Hill, a former Conservative councillor supporting the petition, said free weekend parking had been a "boost to businesses" and "a draw for people".

He said removing free parking or concessions for blue badge holders was "grossly unfair and discriminatory" and would have "a massive detrimental effect on the town."

A spokesman for the council said it would "consider and discuss all draft proposals, including those relating to parking charges in Northampton, at a budget-setting meeting on Thursday evening".

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

More on this story
Related internet links