Owners and managers of businesses serving Bath’s evening economy are joining Bath MP Don Foster is voicing their concern over the Council’s decision to increase evening car parking charges by 50%.
The dispute comes after a major campaign last year against increased charges. The Conservative Council recently completed a 3 month parking review, which it was claimed would also take into account the current economic downturn.
None of the businesses Don has spoken to were consulted during this 3 month period, they first heard the news when it was published in the local media. Don said,
It is vital, especially at a time of recession, that we help support our local businesses all we can, but this increase is going to make people think twice about visiting Bath.
Levels of public transport, especially for those living just outside the city, are far from adequate in the evening and for many people driving into town is the only option, but with extra costs they might look elsewhere or not bother at all.
We am deeply concerned by this move from the Conservative Council, and it is made even worse by the fact that apparently none of these businesses were even spoken to about the change.
The Bath Odeon is competing with a rival cinema at Longwell Green, which has free parking.
Simon Morse, manager at Bath Odeon said,
The Council’s decision to raise the evening car parking charges is a disappointing one. Many leisure facilities such as us and the Theatre Royal rely on guests who drive into Bath. I feel that this decision will deter potential customers and affect many businesses.
Jean-Pierre Auge, owner of Beaujolais restaurant and Chair of the Bath Restaurant Association, commented,
This is another kick in the teeth to the restaurateurs of Bath. We are already finding it tough in the current economic climate, and potential customers are going to be put off even more by high car parking charges.
A spokesperson for the Theatre Royal Bath commented,
Judging by the feedback we get from our customers the availability of free parking during the evening is essential and we would be opposed to any change to that.
Well-attended events at the Theatre Royal also benefit many other local businesses in the city, including Bath’s restaurants, bars and hotels. It remains to be seen how visitor numbers would be affected, but it would only have a negative impact on the customers who are supporting the city by choosing to spend their evening in Bath.
Also affected by the changes are Sainsbury’s, who have the only free car park in the city centre. Those trying to avoid car parking charges regularly use their car park, which prevents potential customers from find a space. Friday evenings can be a particularly bad time, as it is a very busy shopping period, but people visiting Bath for a short period will try and cram into the car park.
Ian Seymour, deputy Store Manager, said,
As a major retailer, I believe that my business will be affected, as we have the only free car park in the centre of Bath, and the increase in car parking charges are going to put extra pressure on this facility.
The Little Theatre Cinema and Gala Bingo have both expressed their concerns about the increase in evening car parking charges.