You gotta hand it to Claremont Pier, they’ve really gone for the jugular – and the whole town is backing them. Every operator, every visitor and every resident knows that excessive parking charges could kill tourism and the local economy. The only ones that don’t understand that simple economic rule are some councillors who think a more than doubling of the parking charges is exactly what’s needed to boost the seaside resort’s appeal. Well, a Claremont Pier petition has proved them wrong, and now those elected economic numpties will have to listen to the case against a parking hike.

The operator of Claremont Pier in Lowestoft has launched a petition to voice concerns over the local council’s decision to significantly raise parking charges.

Ben Llewellyn, director of RTT Leisure, is urging the authority to reconsider increasing a two-hour stay near the beach from £1.50 to £4.00, a four-hour stay from £3.00 to £7.00, and an all-day stay from £4.00 to £8.00. These steep hikes have sparked widespread concern, not only among businesses like Claremont Pier, but with local residents as well.

“This is a seaside town that relies on tourism, but as always the planks in charge don’t think about this and wonder why the town is in disarray and shops are empty,” said Lowstoftian Andy Gregory, addressing his local council. “Pull your damn fingers out and start acting in the interest of the town, not what you all seem to ‘think’ will help improve tourism!”

Llewellyn acknowledged the financial pressures faced by the authority, but expressed frustration over the lack of consultation with those directly affected.

“It’s frustrating that there was no consultation with local businesses and residents to understand how to mitigate the impact of these changes,” he stated.

The petition has smashed through the 2,000 signatures mark at the time of writing – reaching the level where it will make its voice heard. Posting on social media this week, Claremont Pier confirmed: “We have received the required signatures to speak infront of the council, HUGE THANK YOU to everyone that has signed the petition.”  

And the findings of the poll will say it all when the town’s views are put to those very councillors who believe price hikes are a good idea. Remember though, those survey respondents will be voting in the next local elections – and you won’t be getting an X in your box.

Good luck with that.