FRUSTRATED BUSINESSES are calling for “common sense” in a bitter tussle over parking in a premier spot on a village’s market days.
Currently, drivers can only park in Uppermill square on Wednesdays before 6pm if they hold a permit.
But businesses say the market ends by early afternoon and traffic should be allowed to use the parking spots vacated by traders.
Instead, they claim they are losing trade because drivers are scared off by a £30 fine for breaking the parking restriction.
Now, one business has put up a hand-written notice warning would-be visitors of the dilemma.
Andy Smith (27), manager of Dinnerstones restaurant, has been involved in a running exchange with Oldham Council and the parking operators over the problems.
He said: “Surely if the market is not there, there is no need to give people tickets? The stalls have all long gone by 4pm with others departing earlier by 1pm.
“Parking is hard enough in Uppermill but if people are getting tickets when the market isn’t there, custom is being driven away.”
He added: “Basic common sense should be used when it comes to parking in smaller villages.
“The idea is to make these places thrive, not drive people away by unnecessary tickets.”
Joan Frost, proprietor of Millyard Gallery in Uppermill square added: “The restrictions make it very awkward for customers parking to collect or deliver items.”
In a response, Oldham Council says the market day traffic regulation order from 5am until 6pm means the restriction is enforceable.
“If vehicles are seen parked in contravention, penalty charges will be issued. This is applicable to all regulations at all locations,” they added.
Local ward councillor John McCann said: “Restrictions were brought in because drivers were preventing stalls setting up or getting access.
“The market was in danger of ceasing so, after consultation, the restrictions were introduced.
“The signs are clear and drivers should take account of restrictions which have been in place for some time and were supported when the recent review led to a time increase at some car parks.”
An OMBC spokesman said: “We’ve checked our records and penalty charge notices issued were for contravention of the restriction – Wednesday permit holders only.
“Anyone who receives a PCN, and this applies across the borough, has the right of appeal,” he added.
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