Rise in the cost of parking in Lewes a 'worry for retailers' says group representing them
A group representing retailers in Lewes is worried shoppers may go online or visit other towns due to a rise in the cost of parking.
Lewes District Council has increased rates at its car parks as part of its response to rising costs.
Lewes Traders Group Chair, Ashley Price said: "These increases will seriously affect both retailers and their customers. As we come towards Christmas, a time when many shops are hoping for increased sales, this move by LDC means that customers are more likely to shop online or go to other towns rather than spend their money in Lewes.”
He added: “The fact that the Council has given very little notice and the only indication appears to be the very small signs at the entrances to car parks, which most drivers will likely miss, does make this feel like a surreptitious way to get increased income from shoppers over the next month.”
In response, a statement from Lewes District Council said: “We understand the concerns and pressures facing local businesses and residents, which is why decisions to increase charges are never taken lightly.
“Councils across the country have been reviewing parking charges as they respond to rising costs.
“However, the increases in Lewes are modest. For example, an hour in a short stay car park has increased by just 25p to £1.15. A 30-minute stay has increased by 20p, while a two-hour stay has increased by 30p.
“When you consider that an hour parked on Lewes High Street costs £4.75, our car parks remain very competitively priced.”