WITH reference to the proposed outrageous increase in parking charges, it is quite clear that the members of West Devon Borough Council have ignored all of those who signed the petition organised by Somerfields and other businesses in Tavistock protesting at the rise last year. I have been told that the council will only recognise individual complaints. If this is the case, I would urge all the traders and shoppers who use their car to get to Tavistock to write to the West Devon Borough Council and tell them exactly what they think of this latest money-grabbing exercise and ask them to consider the fact that in charging £1 an hour, not only will Tavistock have one of the more expensive small town car parks in this country, but it can only add to traffic congestion caused by people driving around trying to find an alternative place to park. If they cannot they may well go elsewhere. One really has to ask if, by hitting the motorist and thereby the visitors and shoppers, this council is trying to ruin Tavistock?s well-deserved reputation as the best market town in England. Paul Mercer Ivy Cottage Peter Tavy SO West Devon Borough Council is putting up the Tavistock car park charges? Perhaps shopkeepers could consider staying open two evenings a week, running (for instance) from noon till 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Car parks are free in the evening. Until, that is, the borough realises what?s happening ? but why should they have so much power over what is such a vital town concern? Ivor Williams Stationmasters Coryton
