The Green Group of Councillors welcome the news that Stroud District Council (SDC) is withdrawing plans to charge for car parking in Dursley, Nailsworth, Wotton-under-Edge and Stratford Park in Stroud.
Cllr. Norman Kay (Green) Nailsworth commented “It is important we learn lessons from this exercise. One can only sympathise with the plight SDC faces as central government drastically cuts their funding but it cannot put market towns at risk in its need to raise funds. I would welcome new policies to reduce car use, to promote walking and cycling and car-sharing”.
Cllr Catherine Braun (Green) who represents Wotton-under-Edge Ward said, “I’m pleased to see that the views of residents from my Ward and across the district have been heard by the District Council.”
Greens have argued throughout the discussions on the proposed introduction of car parking charges, that there should be full consultation and collaboration with local traders, town councils and residents – who best understand their local needs.
“As local Green Party councillors we recognise that the availability of parking is one of the factors which can attract shoppers and visitors, and help to secure the future of our towns as vital community, service and recreational hubs,” added Cllr Braun.
During the consultation, many people have raised concerns about congestion, air pollution, road safety and lack of facilities for cyclists and walkers. Following on from the recent debate, the Green Party would like to see wider engagement from all political parties, the town councils, traders and residents to develop an integrated strategy across Stroud District which would address these issues, to support local market towns, and the health and wellbeing of residents.