Cut Parking Charges and Revitalise High Streets

The current charge of £3.30 per hour is discouraging residents and visitors from using our high streets and is having a damaging effect on local businesses. More affordable parking would increase footfall, encourage people to shop locally and help support the long-term vitality of Birchington and Cliftonville.

We urge Thanet District Council to implement these changes and support our local communities and businesses.

As local councillors representing Birchington and Cliftonville, we have spent countless hours speaking with residents, shoppers and business owners about the challenges facing our high streets. One issue is raised time and time again: the cost of parking.

At £3.30 per hour, parking charges have become a significant barrier for many people who want to support local businesses. Residents tell us they now think twice before visiting their local high street, while others say they stay for less time than they used to because they are worried about the cost. For some families, pensioners and those on fixed incomes, parking charges can turn a simple shopping trip into an expensive outing.

Local business owners are feeling the impact too. They have told us that footfall has fallen noticeably since the parking charges increased. Independent shops, cafés, restaurants and service providers rely on people being able to visit conveniently and affordably. When fewer people come into town, local businesses suffer, and the character and vitality of our high streets are put at risk.

To better understand the issue, we conducted surveys in both Birchington and Cliftonville. The response was overwhelming. Residents consistently told us they are visiting less often and spending less time in our town centres because of parking costs. Many supported the idea of one hour of free parking followed by a reasonable charge of £1 per hour for a maximum stay of three hours.

This campaign is about protecting and revitalising our high streets. It is about making it easier for people to shop locally, support independent businesses and spend time in their communities. Birchington and Cliftonville deserve thriving town centres, not empty parking spaces and struggling businesses.

The support we have received has been incredible, and it is clear that residents want change. By signing this petition, you can help send a strong message to Thanet District Council that affordable parking is essential for the future of our high streets and the communities that depend on them.