Framlingham parking charges not well received

The implementation of new parking charges has left residents exasperated in Framlingham.

New parking meters were unveiled this week, in line with the introduction of charges for car parks in Fore Street, Market Hill and The Elms, causing a backlash on social media.

Posting on the town’s community Facebook page, town councillor Marion Hine said the town council had been left in the dark.

She said: “Although we asked to be notified by East Suffolk Council in advance of the new parking charges being introduced, we were not told until after the event.

“As a result, we have not been able to provide any notice for the town, and apologise for the confusion.”

She added: “The Market Hill meter went live on Friday, but has been incorrectly set up and, as yet, has no card reader.”

Residents soon weighed in on the matter, with Paul Davies accusing the district council of lacking in moral judgement.

He said: “We may have been consulted, but where is the moral compass?”

Esther Gibbons added: “Framlingham does not need this and it completely changes the vibe and footfall for browsing shops. We are a tiny town centre – let it be.”

Charges have been introduced following a public consultation earlier this year.

Under the rules, up to half an hour of parking is free, with prices rising from £1 for up to two hours, to £4 for more than four hours.

The period covered by the charges is 8am to 6pm, between Monday and Saturday.

District councillor Maurice Cook attempted to diffuse the situation. “Unfortunately, the planned prior notice of the launch was not released due to continued Covid-19 restrictions,” he said.

“I also understand that incorrect signage was initially installed on Market Hill. This has now been corrected.

“Parking charges have been introduced to dissuade all-day parking and make more parking opportunities available for shoppers and visitors to support local businesses.”