From Harleston and District Car Parks Group

Dear Councillor Fuller

Car Park Charges – a way forward in Harleston

You are reported as seeking a meeting with objectors to proposals for car parking charges in Harleston.

You, however, only wish to meet on the basis that charges will be introduced and that we participate solely over how they are applied.

Our concern has always been the need to understand the consequences of introducing charges, before any decisions are made. This you have dismissed.

The Harleston and District Car Parks Group has tried several times to take the matter forward.

Our communications, evidence and submissions are ignored and information has been denied to us by you, other councillors and officers on numerous occasions.

Yet, individuals on our group are contacted, with demands that they must have the power to negotiate and to reach final conclusions, but only on your terms.

In December 2007 we published a position statement about our approach, clearly stating our aim to work open-mindedly with South Norfolk District Council to explore the issues and to report back to various key groups and the town council, which itself has taken a similar stance in a formal resolution.

You cannot accuse objectors of refusing to discuss matters, when that discussion is limited to proposals which you have effectively decided on.

We agree there is an urgent need to meet. We understand the issues to be dealt with; there are ways forward, but they require action in good faith and without preconditions.

Otherwise it will be a waste of everyone's time.

Meetings can, however, only explore the matter; solutions must involve the community at large.

For progress to be made, it is necessary for your assurance that 'Nothing has been decided', publicly made to the people of Harleston, to be honoured.

Yours sincerely,

Robin Twigge, The Thoroughfare, Harleston On behalf of the Harleston and District Car Parks Group