"Tories deal parking blow to Thatcham" - Brooks
January 11, 2007 12:00 AM
Lib Dems are asking the Tories to look again at free parking for Thatcham
Councillor Jeff Brooks, Chair of West Berkshire Council's Overview & Scrutiny Commission, has hit out at the ruling Tory Group following last week's special meeting of the Commission. The Commission met to examine the Lib Dem proposals to introduce free parking at the Kingsland Centre in Thatcham. The council's Tory Executive had previously rejected these plans and the Lib Dem Group 'called in' their decision to do so amidst concerns that proper consultation had not been undertaken.
Councillor Brooks commented:
"Whilst I am saddened that the Tories have failed to stand up for Thatcham in difficult times, their attitude does not surprise me. They have been consistent only in their ongoing disregard for the town in times where traders are being forced to shut up shop due to low footfall. It's a reasonable proposal and they failed to even look into it thoroughly, neglecting to consult Waitrose and only remembering to consult Thatcham Town Council following considerable pressure from Lib Dem members."
Councillor Alexander Payton, who originally proposed the free parking measures at a meeting of Thatcham Area Forum back in summer 2006, expressed his disappointment that the result:
"This is an extremely disappointing result given the length of time the Tories had to do this job properly. I am pleased that the Lib Dems on the Scrutiny Commission are proposing that this be re-visited in six months. We are also recommending that there is a full review of how the council consults with the public. Nevertheless, even this must be agreed by the Tory Executive and given their attitude to Thatcham I fear it is unlikely to be passed."
Note to Editor:
The recommendations from the Overview & Scrutiny Commission will be heard by the Executive at its meeting on Thursday (11th January).
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