Concern over council delay in Rasen parking charges debate

West Lindsey District Council has defended its decision to delay responding to residents addressing their objections to proposed parking charges in Market Rasen.

Everyone who sent a letter of objection to WLDC was told: “A response addressing all points raised will be sent to all correspondents after the period for comments has closed.”

The consultation closed over a month ago but objectors have not yet been given any response - and resident Guy Grainger is concerned.

He said: “I have received no such response.

“I am very worried that WLDC may not be acting with due diligence on this most important matter.

“There does appear to be a lack of transparency that makes very hard to discern what is going on.

“This cannot be regarded as good governance.”

WLDC says the delay is down to the fact it needs more time to consider a 2,633-signature petition opposing the proposed charges.

And the council has reassured residents they will get an individual response in due course.

Mr Grainger is highly concerned about the impact parking charges would have on the town.

He said: “The introduction of parking charges in Market Rasen will severely impact the town - businesses and residents alike will suffer.”

WLDC wants to charge people to park in the town’s John Street, Festival Hall and Kilnwell Road car parks, saying the scheme will generate additional income and increase the turnover of car parking spaces.

The petition against the charges was set up by local businessman Adrian Campbell and backed by Market Rasen Mayor John Matthews.

Mr Campbell believes the council needs to do more research before bringing in pay and display.

Last week Coun Matthews raised concerns about WLDC covering the town’s ‘free parking’ signs - before any decision has been made.

WLDC said free parking was still available and that the signs had been covered now due to ‘substantial demands’ on the highways department.

If the pay and display scheme goes ahead, charges will range from 30p for up to one hour 
to £1.95 for six or more hours, and there would be free parking after 3pm.

The district council had originally planned to have machines in place by the summer.