Council policy on parking should be aligned with the economic needs of the area, not just treated as a cash cow for raising revenue. Mid Sussex District Council’s latest proposals to increase parking charges by 150% in Burgess Hill and Mid Sussex, if approved, would be a bombshell for our area.

At a time of recession the Council needs to be thinking carefully how it can help support local businesses and retailers. We need to encourage our local residents to use the town centre, not drive to Crawley or Horsham for their shopping.

Mid Sussex District Council’s proposals would mean charges for one hour’s parking are higher than Crawley, Horsham or Lewes, and will be double the rate in Shoreham. The proposed increase in parking charges would mean paying £5-£6 if staying for over 4 hours parking in Mid Sussex.

The proposed parking increase represents an additional £65 a month for regular long term users.Horsham District Council recognised the severity of the current recession when they decided to withdraw proposals to increase parking charges last November. Since then the economic circumstances have worsened and for the sake of our town centres the district council should do the same.

Pay on exit for example would also encourage shoppers to remain longer, and when combined with “revolutionary” ideas, like giving change when paying for parking, could provide a real boost to our town centres.

If the Market Place Shopping Centre (Waitrose Car Park) Burgess Hill can do this, why can’t Mid Sussex?

Also introducing a free half hour parking on at least an occasional basis would be a headline grabbing way of attracting new shoppers. Why can’t the District Council work with its town centres, be innovative and help give retailers a lifeline in these recessionary times? Any increase in parking charges should be withdrawn.