Parking problems hit business

PARKING problem . . . Malik Rahman (right) and his staff at Ana Tyre and Exhaust Centre

GARAGE boss Malik Rahman says parking restrictions are damaging his business.

Drivers calling in for a quote at his garage in Duke Street, Failsworth, have been given £60 parking tickets for stopping for a couple of minutes, he claims.

There are double yellow lines outside the 23-year-old business and a permit-only residents’ parking area opposite, highlighted by small signs — leaving customers with nowhere to stop.

Mr Rahman, who lives in Chadderton has been contacting Oldham Council for the last five years since the yellow lines were first painted and has unsuccessfully asked for a short stopping time - no more than 10 minutes - to be granted.

“I have been paying my rates but am getting nowhere,” he said. “Traffic wardens are harassing my customers. Motorists come in for a quote and get a £60 ticket, so they won’t come back.”

Councillor Dave Hibbert, cabinet member for housing, transport and planning, said: “Oldham Council has been working to address concerns about parking availability in this area of Duke Street for some time.

“We continue to work with this business owner to find an appropriate solution.”