Industry News

News that the government plans intends to simplify the planning system, including scrapping limits on town centre parking spaces, has been met with approval by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). 

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles made an announcement this week which detailed planned changes to the way in which urban centre parking is currently restricted.

Pickles explained he wanted to conclude the problems faced by people and companies who struggle to go about their daily business due to parking fines, high parking charges and a shortage of parking spaces. 

Tom Ironside, BRC director of business and regulation, said: "Accessibility is crucial to the success of town centres. Shoppers look for good transport connections and plenty of affordable parking. 

"Councils should make use of this new freedom to provide more parking as quickly as possible in areas where it is needed – but it must be at the right price.

"It's short-sighted to treat parking as a revenue raiser. High fees – which take advantage of shoppers – risk driving away business from town and city centres."

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