I OBJECT to the parking charges proposed at Hatherleigh Car Park for the following reasons:
Economic: to impose charges would mean that it would require to be 'policed', also there is the cost of installing the equipment etc. As you are probably aware the Market carpark is nearby which I understand will still be free.
Environmental: more cars, vans and the school minibus would be more likely to be parked on the streets.
Business: It would deter people to shop and visit Hatherleigh, as they can still park free in Okehampton.
Socially: As more local residents park in the streets the chances of parking near our own homes would diminish.
We have been, since the foot and mouth crisis, trying as a community 'to regenerate' the town.
Regeneration must depend on local private businesses to attract visitors and locals alike. After all the promises made by our public servants this proposed action goes against the sprit of these promises.
As our public servants I appeal to you to reject this planning application for the sake of Hatherleigh and its businesses and residents, alike, as well as the council tax payers of West Devon.
Neil Price,
Bridge Street,
Hatherleigh.