Local traders fear loss of customers as Aberdeenshire Council implements parking fees
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Inverurie, a town known for its vibrant local businesses, is facing a significant shift as Aberdeenshire Council has decided to implement parking fees in the town centre. This decision has ignited a wave of concern among residents and local traders, who fear that the new charges will deter customers and ultimately harm the local economy.
Concerns over customer influx and local trade
The introduction of parking fees is expected to generate an additional £35,000 annually for the council, a move that has been met with skepticism by many. Local businesses, particularly those that have thrived on foot traffic from nearby Aberdeen, worry that the new charges will push potential customers away.
As one reader pointed out, the appeal of Inverurie has been its accessibility, especially for those looking to escape the congestion of Aberdeen’s city centre.
William Bruce, a local shoe shop owner, noted that many customers from Aberdeen have chosen to visit Inverurie due to its free parking and unique shopping experience. However, with the new parking fees, there is a growing concern that these customers may opt to stay in Aberdeen, where they can enjoy free parking at larger retail chains.
Potential chaos in surrounding areas
Residents have also expressed fears that the introduction of parking fees will lead to chaos in surrounding streets. As people seek free parking options, they may overflow into residential areas, creating a new set of challenges for local residents. One commenter highlighted that this could lead to the need for resident parking permits, further complicating the situation.
Moreover, the potential for increased competition between local businesses and larger supermarkets, which often provide free parking, raises questions about the long-term viability of small and medium-sized enterprises in the area. Many believe that the council’s decision could create an uneven playing field, making it increasingly difficult for local traders to compete.
Council’s perspective on parking fees
During discussions surrounding the implementation of parking fees, Aberdeenshire provost Judy Whyte emphasized the potential benefits of the new system. She argued that charging for parking could encourage a higher turnover of vehicles, allowing more customers to access local businesses. The council believes that this approach could ultimately benefit the town centre by making it easier for shoppers to find available parking.
Despite the council’s rationale, the backlash from the community has been significant. Many residents feel that the decision is misguided and that it prioritizes revenue generation over the health of the local economy. As the council moves forward with its plans, the future of Inverurie’s town centre remains uncertain, with many hoping for a reconsideration of the parking fee strategy.
Customers, when faced with “out of town shopping” with free parking versus in-town paid parking generally opt for the free parking. The result is the death knell of many a town centre. It won’t happen overnight, but over time, the rate-paying shops will be replaced by charity shops (rate free, usually), and the town centre will die off as the other shops cannot earn enough to survive.