Trader Dudley offers to buy parking as fare rises

Two-hour free parking in the Dudley borough was scrapped on October 1, leaving shoppers facing charges ranging from £1.20 for one hour to £2.50 for two.

Some councilors have suggested they will address business concerns in a second phase of reforms next year.

Mr Williams explained: “If I didn’t think it was going to affect me, I wouldn’t offer to dip into my pockets and go and buy the car park.”

However, he said he was told the land was not for sale.

Mr Williams said there was insufficient on-site parking at his business and the neighboring car park provided essential additional spaces.

He said on Sunday the number of bands using the studios had dropped from about 15 to 20 to three and six.

“I realize the council needs to make money, but they’re making it in the wrong places,” he said.

“Increase council tax and business rates but don’t start keeping our customers away.”

Retailers are also worried about a new high street parking ban.

Luke Nawaz, of A1 Motor Spares, said he had seen trade drop by 30 to 40 per cent.

“People used to come in, they can’t do that now,” he said.

Wayne Lewis, owner of Smart Simple Repairs, said it wasn’t just shoppers who felt this way.

“I’m here 12 hours a day, why can’t we be given a permit as traders to park for free in a council car park?” he said.