At the weekend businesses across the Somer Valley overwhelmingly backed a letter by Councillor Grant Johnson to the leader of B&NES Council, Cllr Kevin Guy, calling on him to drop the proposed introduction of Car Parking charges in Midsomer Norton and Radstock.

It comes off the back of growing criticism from local Councillors, who raised the issue when discussing the proposed Council budget for 22/23 at Policy Development and Scrutiny Panels. In the letter Councillor Johnson outlines his objections, stating "We understand that the budget setting process is never an easy one and difficult decisions need to be made, but we strongly believe this proposal will have a negative impact on local businesses and add even more cost onto residents who are already struggling due to the cost-of-living crisis."

"Our High Streets were fighting to survive during lockdown, so to introduce these charges now would have a catastrophic effect on the Somer Valley by disincentivising residents from shopping local. We believe that the Council should be supporting our High Streets by actively investing in and promoting their renewal – not accelerating their decline." He also countered claims made by Cllr Richard Samuel at a recent meeting of the Climate Emergency and Sustainability PDS Panel, "The Lib Dem Cabinet member for resources argued recently that the charges would be 'modest' and that there is a problem with individuals 'parking all day', but we do not share this analysis and can only predict a greater loss in footfall. There has never been an issue with parking availability in either Midsomer Norton or Radstock, which is one of the reasons our High Street has remained successful, so this argument just doesn't stack up."

So far 49 businesses have endorsed the letter with many worried what parking charges will do to the local economy. There was also concern that those that work on the High Street wouldn't be able to afford to park during their shift, as many aren't within walking or cycling distance. Along with the letter, Cllr Johnson has also started an online petition for residents to sign, which has already gained over 850 signatures in less than a week. Residents have happily been giving their reasons for signing by commenting on the Change.org site. One argued, "It's unfair to make the struggling population of a struggling town pay to park, when times are tough, money is tight, why charge us? We pay through the roof on Council tax as it is." While another said, "It's another nail in the coffin for the local high streets."

Residents and Councillors also met at Midsomer Norton's South Road Car Park on Saturday to show their support for the campaign, with many angry at the lack of consultation. Cllr Johnson hopes to present his petition to a meeting of Council in the hope that the proposals are withdrawn. There will also be further budget scrutiny taking place at a public meeting on Monday 31st January via Zoom. Details of where you can sign the petition can be found following HERE:

It already has over a thousand signatures.