Parking Charges in Harleston

General Chat

Parking Charges in Harleston

louisa 10/10/2007, 6:01 PM
Harleston is an town whose very ordinariness makes it extraordinary. Wearing it's history lightly, with Tudor buildings hidden behind later brick fronts, this busy market town has only three stores that could be described as part of even semi-national chains. People from out lying villages mingle with town dwellers to shop, chat and be part of a vibrant community whose achievements have just been recognised by the award of 'Best Small Town' in the EDP. So, when we are in a situation that is the envy of many other towns, (consider Diss's aspiration to 'Cittislo' status) why is this jewel of South Norfolk being jeopardised by the threat of parking charges? As a town dweller who rarely uses the free car parks, I am more than happy to pay a levy to maintain these car parks and support our independent retailers and this vibrant community. A parking fee is not just money, it is the inconvenience of having the right change, of either juggling a baby on a hip or leaving it in the car, whilst feeding the machine, the threat of a ticket whilst getting change. Today, people pause and chat, exchange news and views, tomorrow - rushing to beat the Parking Meter? Introducing parking charges will not put us on a par with Diss - they have two huge free car parks - one called Morrison's and the other Tesco's! Don't let a 21st Century act of administrative vandalism destroy a town that survives and thrives as a model for modern living.