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Island resident Lynn Lansbury shares the letter she’s sent to the Isle of Wight Council objecting to the Parking Places Order Consultation No 1 2014. Ed
Grounds for objection against the proposed changes to parking
By increasing hours for which parking fees must be paid and implementing charges where previously there were none there will be a significant cost to the health of Islanders.
Many Islanders live in locations where walks cannot safely be taken from their own front door. That is to say, there is a large rural population who do not have extensive footpath systems accessible from their home. Walking along roads with no footpath is not feasible or practical for many; families with young children, elderly people, people with disabilities.
For those who can achieve it the risks of accidents, especially with tourist unfamiliar with Island roads, are high – especially when there is not even a verge to stand on.
Limiting access to exercise
Walking is a practical and economical way to take the physical exercise which is vital to mental health and physical well-being. Many people have to drive to a location in order that they can walk safely, on their own, with children, with pets and without the danger of walking in the same space as cars, buses and coaches.
By increasing parking charges and charging in places that were previously free you are limiting access to exercise for free.
Other benefits of free parking
Reducing parking fees and increasing the number of places with free parking has many benefits.
In addition to the health of the Islanders, shops and businesses will benefit. Tourists will be more inclined to visit the Island and spend money with Island businesses if fees are kept at low rates. They will stop and shop at more places if they do not have to pay each time.
Short sighted strategies
Short sighted strategies to increase revenue often fail. People will not spend more, they often don’t have the funds. I used to buy a parking pass when it was £50 and then £75. When it went to £500 I found alternatives and I haven’t spent a single penny in a council car park since.
So from one Islander £75 in fees was lost. People will find ways around the unreasonable charges. For example, shopping online as the delivery charge is lower than the cost of parking.
Take a long term view. Keep free parking areas and do not increase prices, for healthy Islanders and healthier Island business.
Regards, Lynn Lansbury MBPsS
Image: Goat’s Greetings under CC BY 2.0
