‘Common sense’ call on market parking

Frustrated businesses are calling for “common sense” in a bitter tussle over parking on Uppermill’s market days.

Currently only drivers with a permit can park in the village square on Wednesdays. But resident businesses say the market ends by early afternoon and traffic should be allowed to use the spots vacated by traders afterwards.

They claim they are losing trade because drivers are scared off by a £30 fine for parking. One business has even put up a notice warning would-be visitors

Andy Smith (27), manager of Dinnerstone restaurant for 18 months, has been involved in a running exchange with the council and parking operators.

“Surely if the market isn’t there, there is no need to give people tickets? The stalls have all long gone by 4 pm, others 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. Basic common sense should be used.”

Oldham Council said the market day traffic regulation order runs from from 5am to 6pm: “We need to be consistent and if vehicles are parked in contravention, penalty charges will be issued,” said a spokesman. “This is applicable to all regulations at all locations. Anyone who receives a charge notice has the right of appeal.”

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 the restrictions, which have been in place for some time.”