Local business owners in Vale are rallying against proposed parking fees, fearing it could hurt their trade and deter visitors
The council plans to charge for parking at popular spots like Barry Island and Penarth seafront. Some local businesses have even started petitions to fight back. Sid Sethi, who runs a restaurant in Penarth, thinks charging for parking now is a bad move. He believes it’ll keep people away, especially when it’s cold and rainy.
The proposed fees are steep, too. For just a couple of hours, it could cost you £2.50, and if you want to stay all day, it’s a whopping £10. That’s a lot for someone just looking to grab a quick bite.
Other business owners, like Giuseppe from Romeo’s by the Sea, are also worried. He says that if people have to pay that much just to park, they might choose to eat somewhere else.
There’s been a lot of chatter about this. A petition against the charges has already gathered over 1,200 signatures. Even some council members think the charges are unnecessary and could hurt local businesses.
The council argues that the money from parking fees will help maintain the area and keep it clean, but many locals feel they weren’t properly consulted.
Some new business owners, like Sidali from Severn View Bar Restaurant, see the charges as a potential solution to parking issues. He says it’s tough for customers to find spots, especially on busy weekends.
Meanwhile, Louis Ross, who runs Barrybados, is leading the charge against the new fees. He’s worried about how quickly the council is trying to push these plans through without proper discussions.
It’s a mixed bag of opinions, but one thing’s for sure: the community is buzzing about this issue, and everyone’s hoping the council will listen before making any final decisions.
