Lewes on-street parking charge hike is slammed

Last month, the Express reported that on-street parking charges in Lewes were to rise for the first time in ten years despite warnings move will deter some visitors.

On January 20, the council’s lead member for transport and environment Claire Dowling approved proposals to increase pay and display parking charges by between 20p and £1.90 in Lewes.

In response, Clare Crouch, president of Lewes Chamber of Commerce, said: “The chamber is very disappointed in this. East Sussex County Council has decided to alienate businesses, shoppers, and tourists to the town, by significantly increasing charges for on-street parking.

“Lewes businesses, especially small and independent retailers, throughout the town already have a tough enough time, with high rent and rate charges, plus the already restricted parking; this increase will further discourage people from coming to the town to shop, or visit the many attractions.

“Car users are less likely to shop in Lewes town itself, and instead shop online, visit other towns or the outskirts where larger, national chains, can afford to offer parking for free.”

She said while it was commendable that the council wished to help decrease CO2 emissions, there did not appear to be any plans to back this up.

“It is simply a case of further taxing car users while, at the same time, not investing in the public transport and the other forms of travel that these increases are supposed to encourage,” she added.

In response, an ESCC spokesman said: “We are increasing on-street parking charges for the first time in more than a decade to help manage demand for parking in the town centre by changing people’s behaviour, as well as reducing congestion and improving air quality.

“We would invite the Chamber of Commerce to join us in putting out very clear and positive messages that Lewes is a great place to come and shop, and remains open for all.

“For those who choose to drive in to Lewes, parking charges in off-street car parks are not changing and therefore visitors and shoppers will see no difference and have no reason to avoid the town.

“The increase in on-street charges will increase lead to an increased churn of parking spaces on the High Street making it more accessible for those short visits, and increase footfall.

“The reduced congestion will also ensure bus services into and around the town remain reliable and an attractive alternative to the car.”