New bays boost for businesses

Monday February 8, 2010

New low-cost parking bays to attract shoppers and boost businesses have been introduced in Goldhawk Road.

Businesses have welcomed the bays, which cost 20 pence for half an hour. There are currently 14 bays, stretching from Wells Road to Bamborough Gardens, and the council is looking to add more in the near future.

The reduced price bays – down from £2.40 per hour – come following a lengthy council consultation with residents and businesses in the area. Similar schemes in Askew Road and Fulham Road last year have proved popular.

Jill Lee of Artbeat in Fulham Road says her customers are full of praise for the new bays. “A lot of my customers are very happy about the 20p bays and are often saying that it’s helpful. I would certainly recommend it for any area where businesses need a bit of help.”

John Mani from London Joggers in Goldhawk Road said: “I think it’s an excellent idea but it should have been done years ago. It’s too little too late. The bus lane shouldn’t be used 24/7, as it’s only needed first thing in the morning and at night, and that could mean extra parking spaces. But it is a good idea.”

Councillor Nicholas Botterill, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, said: “Introducing these innovative new bays is just one way we can help encourage more people to shop in the area, which is vibrant, busy and exciting. Business owners and residents have told us what they want, and these changes have been made taking all those views into account.”