Labour’s plan to increase parking charges confirms that there is nothing business like about this council.

Their proposed price hikes (up to 50% in some cases) mainly affect Raynes Park, Wimbledon town centre and Wimbledon Village. These were the areas where the results of the 2012 town centre surveys instigated by Conservative councillors showed the greatest concern about the high cost of parking and the need for simplification of parking charges.

For Labour to increase parking charges therefore shows complete disregard for the views of residents.

According to the council’s own report £300,000 a year in additional revenue will be generated through Labour’s changes to pay & display parking meters. Yet this change did not feature anywhere in Labour’s manifesto.

It is another attack on motorists and small businesses that will penalise the elderly, who need to park near to the businesses they want to visit, and damage our high streets.

Merton’s parking tariffs which are undoubtedly confusing and need to be simplified. However, Labour’s decision shows a complete lack of imagination and does nothing to reduce complexity.

It also demonstrates their disdain for democracy, transparency and openness by pushing this through now (three years after the reviews) without scrutiny by the relevant committees and councillors.

Conservative councillors are therefore challenging this decision, on behalf of the residents and local businesses, and demanding that Labour reconsiders this damaging decision.

Councillor Daniel Holden

Conservative, Hillside Ward