WE READ with interest the opinions of Mr Banks (Have Your Say, July 30), and would make the following observations.

The council considered its approach to car parking charges some months ago (when the recession was evident, but the full extent not yet felt), and determined that a price increase for off-street parking areas (ie council-run car parks) was not desirable.

The council decided this even though it could create a greater gulf in council revenue and, in turn, place greater strain on the ratepayer.

Actions speak louder than words and the facts are that, in the last three months, car park usage has increased.

Any regional or national comparison of similar car parking provision in similar conurbations shows Bournemouth to have amongst the most competitive public car park charges available.

These decisions (and others relating to recession funds and the town centre vision) were made in the interests of the local economy and from early indications appear to be having the desired effect.

Commercial pressures have caused an understandable and welcome reaction from private operators, who, like the council and any business have needed to respond to the recessionary pressures that we all experience.

The Chamber of Trade is now closely engaged in guiding our car park strategy and is very encouraged by this and by ideas for the future to attract even more shoppers and visitors.

There has been a long-standing perception that car parking in Bournemouth is expensive.

The reality, as many appear to now recognise, is that, comparatively, it is not.


ROGER PARKER, town centre manager and NIGEL HEDGES, president, Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce