Littlehampton parking rises of up to 233% could ‘drive away’ tourists

Traders and politicians fear a series of rises, to be considered by Arun District Council cabinet members on Monday, are ‘anti-tourism’ and will put off visitors.

In the worst case, more than two hours’ parking in Banjo Road in July and August would cost £10, compared to the current charge of £3 for up to four hours – a 233 per cent rise.

All-day tickets at East Green, Sea Road, The Wall, West Beach and West Green seasonal car parks will also cost £10 – after more than just two or three hours.

Jane Wood, owner of East Beach Café, said: “It is ridiculous. They increased charges before and my business suffered a 20 per cent decrease in business.

“The strategy is anti-tourism and anti-visitors. It is very short-term and very short-sighted.”

A report to Arun District Council’s cabinet states charges ‘have not kept up with the rate of inflation’, resulting in a reduction of income garnered from parking charges.

The pricing structures for different car parks vary, with town centre facilities potentially seeing rises of between seven and 14 per cent.

Labour councillor Mike Northeast said: “What sort of message is that giving out to people we want to come here?

“All that does is a second visit is not on the cards. The price of an all-day ticket is a round of ice cream for people. In these days of austerity that is a lot of money.”

Harbour Park managing director Gary Smart said the proposed charges at West Green could ‘only be damaging’. He has put forward alternative tariffs and a more efficient pay by phone system to counter those to be considered by the cabinet.

Lib Dem deputy leader James Walsh also criticised the proposals, suggesting they would ‘drive away’ visitors.

A spokesman for Arun District Council said the issue would go out for consultation if approval was given by cabinet members on Monday.

She said: “The council is reviewing its parking rates and is considering increasing charges, which in many areas have not been increased for many years.

“If Arun District Council’s cabinet decide that these proposed charges should go to consultation, the council will then seek the views of residents and town and parish councils before any decision is made.”