To reconsider the proposal to introduce parking charges in Brannon Way Car Park, Wootton Bridge.

To reconsider the proposal to introduce parking charges in Brannon Way Car Park, Wootton Bridge.

Started
11 May 2014
Petition to
Isle of Wight Council
Petition Closed
This petition had 137 supporters

Why this petition matters

Started by Rachel Brown

Wootton Bridge is a thriving village community with an active retired population. It is served by a range of small, independent business-owners who provide a traditional, personal service to the local community. Many village residents live alone and their contact with friends, acquaintances and business owners while out in the community is their only regular companionship.

 The Isle of Wight Council is proposing to introduce charges for stays of over one-hour duration in the car park on Brannon Way in Wootton Bridge. This car park is the only off-street public parking within the village centre, and was a key consideration for the location of the thriving village Community Centre, built in the 1980’s, and the purpose-built Medical Centre which is currently under construction, both of which are sited directly opposite the car park. It is understood that the land on which the car park is located was bequeathed to village residents. In addition to use by the local community, many tourists use the car park at the suggestion of Wightlink staff while waiting for their check-in time at the nearby Fishbourne Ferry Terminal, reducing traffic congestion on the main Ryde-Newport thoroughfare and bringing additional trade to local businesses.

 The introduction of car parking charges will significantly impact the quality of life for local residents. Many of them will no longer be able to enjoy spending time in their village centre, as they will be unable to afford the additional cost of parking. Few will benefit from a single hour of free parking, as this is insufficient for them to enjoy the community village atmosphere that currently exists, and they will suffer from increased anxiety and stress due to the fear of incurring parking penalty charges. Indeed, for many, their advancing years means that an hour is insufficient time for them to negotiate the steep incline to reach the shops at the lower end of the High Street and return to the car park within the allotted time period.

 The simultaneous removal of the Saturday Community Bus Service is an additional blow to community life within the village. Whereas the Number 34 Community Bus, which services the main residential areas of the village, could provide an alternative to using the car and incurring parking charges for some, this valuable service is also being reduced.

 The impact of parking charges on the community of Wootton cannot be underestimated.  All villagers, whether or not they use the car park, will be affected by the reduction in the number of people frequenting the village and the inevitable demise of local businesses.

The Isle of Wight Council constitution allows petitions with more than 2500 signatures to be presented at a full Isle of Wight Council meeting. Please sign this petition to ensure the voice of the community is heard.

Petition Closed

This petition had 137 supporters

Share this petition

Share this petition in person or use the QR code for your own material.Download QR Code

Decision-Makers

  • Isle of Wight Council