AS a visitor to Tavistock I was somewhat surprised at the high parking charges and the effective way in which they are enforced.
They are certainly no incentive to stay in your town and the high minimum charge ensures that you do not stop to obtain a quick simple purchase. Much easier to purchase food and other essentials out of town.
Councillors obviously do not appreciate the effects of these charges on local retailing and commerce, which is a pity because without the service/tourist industry I fear that there would be little to sustain the business rates which pay the costs of the local council.
Might I suggest that the councillors look at the example of New Forest District Council who have abolished all car parking charges in shopping areas with the consequent savings on enforcement staff, machine repairs and officer time.
The benefit to local shops is, of course, immense and you rarely find empty shops in the Forest towns.
A New Forest tourist
Full name and address supplied