A petition with over 1,400 signatures calls for a reversal of parking charges in Inverurie.
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A recent decision by Aberdeenshire Council to implement parking charges at Burn Lane in Inverurie has sparked significant outrage among local residents and business owners. Since January, what were once 116 free parking spaces next to Marks and Spencer have been transformed into paid spots, leading to a staggering 1,400 complaints from the community.
As Inverurie celebrates its status as Scotland’s busiest town center, the introduction of these fees has raised concerns about the potential negative impact on local businesses and foot traffic.
Community concerns about parking fees
The Inverurie Business Improvement District (Bid) group has voiced strong opposition to the new charges, arguing that they are driving shoppers away from the town.
Local residents have reported an increase in congestion on nearby streets as visitors seek to avoid the parking fees. One local trader expressed frustration, stating that the new charges could cost their staff up to £1,000 annually. The growing discontent culminated in a petition that will be presented at an upcoming council meeting, where members will decide whether to maintain the current parking policy or consider its repeal.
Impact on local businesses and shoppers
Critics of the parking charges have noted that the nearby M&S food hall is losing customers, with many opting to shop in Westhill instead, where free parking is still available. The decision to eliminate free parking has left the Burn Lane car park largely empty, while the Garioch Shopping Centre car park is overflowing with vehicles. Derek Ritchie, the head of Inverurie Bid, has submitted the petition to the council, which includes over 1,400 signatures from concerned locals. Many respondents to the petition have indicated that they are no longer spending money in Inverurie due to the parking fees, with one shopper lamenting that the area feels like a ghost town.
Challenges for local workers
The repercussions of the parking charges extend beyond shoppers to local employees as well. Reports indicate that around 50 workers at the Royal Mail delivery office on Constitution Street previously relied on the free parking at Burn Lane. With only 15 free parking spaces available on weekends, employees are now faced with difficult choices: either pay a significant portion of their salary for parking or search for limited residential spaces. One frustrated resident highlighted the financial burden on local shop workers, stating that the new policy effectively penalizes them by reducing their take-home pay. This situation has led to calls for the council to reconsider its decision, as many fear that the changes could jeopardize the future of local businesses.
As the council prepares to discuss the petition and the community’s concerns, the outcome remains uncertain. The voices of Inverurie’s residents and business owners are growing louder, urging the council to listen and take action to reverse the parking charges that have caused such widespread discontent.
