A PETITION signed by more than 4,000 residents calling for a stop to rising parking charges has been submitted to Wokingham Borough Council.
It was presented at a full council meeting on Thursday, October 20, by Cllr Keith Baker on behalf of the Wokingham Conservative Group.
Cllr Baker said: “This has been signed by a staggering 4,238 people, which is a massive response in just three weeks.
“At the same time, there are literally hundreds of comments on social media, pointing out the negative impact of such an action.
“Many of them have indicated they will no longer be using WBC car park when shopping or visiting a restaurant.”
Cllr Baker also thanked retail outlets in the town who had assisted with collected signatures.
He added: “Unlike this coalition, they recognize the drastic impact on their businesses that these extortionate increases in car park charges will have.
“Many of them will simply not be able to survive with the reduction in football with residents boycotting WBC car parks because they are too expensive.
“This is especially so when you think of the hospitality sector where, for the first time, evening charges are being imposed.”
This is the first proposed rise on parking charges since 2018.
Cllr Baker criticised the council for not consulting residents on the changes which is one of the reasons the Conservatives have called in the decision for review, stating it breached the constitution.
The other breaches argued are a presumption of openness, no alternatives and the fact it was a key decision being taken.
This is due to be reviewed by an overview and scrutiny committee on Tuesday, October 25.
