Hi, my name is Karen and I own a boutique ladies clothing shop on Ashley Road in Hale. I am starting this petition to provide a voice for locals, local workers and businesses who have been negatively impacted by the council's reckless decision to increase parking fees in Hale village.

The increase in parking charges has had a marked effect on our local community and economy. Footfall on the high street is dramatically reduced, with some retailers noting a 60% reduction in business. I have already taken action by delivering a letter to Graham Brady MP, signed by 46 Hale businesses protesting the fee increases, to which I have not had an acknowledgement or a reply.

Our local economy and sense of community are vital to the success of Hale village. With so many shops already vacant and others struggling from the rising popularity of both shopping online and local retail parks, putting up parking fees is the proverbial nail in the coffin for businesses in Hale. In addition, the village is becoming a ghost town, which I personally find extremely upsetting. A vibrant, growing village has suddenly fallen quiet.

The move to increase parking fees is a troubling one to understand - for both locals who can't afford an extra few pounds per week, workers who can't park within walking distance of their place of work and the businesses who are now struggling as a result. Does the local council not realise that if the businesses go - so does the money these businesses pay to the council!

Our village high street is our identity, it's the heart of our community. If the local government cares about the success of Hale at all, they will see that these fees must be reduced or axed completely.

I love Hale village, if you do too I urge you to sign and let your local government know that you want your village to thrive, grow and continue to be a shared space we can be proud of.

Thank you.

This ePetition ran from 10/08/2017 to 01/02/2018 and has now finished.

51 people signed this ePetition.