Councillors have clashed over a Conservative proposal to introduce one hour free parking at car parks in Wokingham.
Councillors in Wokingham have had a heated debate over a Conservative proposal for one hour of free parking in local car parks.
The motion, put forward at a full council meeting, aimed to temporarily implement free parking across Wokingham, Woodley, Earley, and Twyford.
Conservative councillor Charles Margetts highlighted struggles faced by businesses, citing significant drops in turnover due to ongoing roadworks on Finchampstead Road and Molly Millars Lane.
"It’s vital for the council to create incentives for residents to support our businesses during this tough time," Margetts urged, emphasising the importance of helping local traders.
However, the ruling Liberal Democrats dismissed the motion, with the council's chief finance officer warning it would cost a staggering £650,000 annually.
Cllr Mark Ashwell, a Liberal Democrat executive member, labelled the plan “ill-conceived” and expressed concern over potential cuts to essential services if the motion passed.
As a business owner himself, he voiced empathy for local shops but underlined the financial implications of such a hit to the council's budget.
In response, Conservative Cllr Dave Edmonds argued that supporting local businesses was a priority, stating: "The question isn’t can we afford this? It’s can we afford not to? Every empty shop means lost income and community vibrancy."
Meanwhile, Independent councillor Alex Freeney critiqued the proposal, pointing out that the savings for drivers would be minimal at just £1.20 for the first hour of parking. He questioned whether incentivising driving into town was the right solution.
Ultimately, the motion failed, receiving support only from Conservative councillors while the Liberal Democrats, Labour, and Cllr Freeney voted against it. The vote took place on Thursday, October 23.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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