LUDLOW should be treated in the same way as Shrewsbury and that means Shropshire Council taking a second look at the impact of changes to park.

Tim Gill, Mayor of Ludlow says that he welcomes a decision to reconsider aspects of proposals for new parking charges in Shrewsbury.

But his cry is: “what about Ludlow.”

“Once again Shropshire Council seems to be blind to the needs of our Town, if not, indeed, down- right hostile,” said Mr Gill.

The Mayor said that the welcomes the decision to consider the proposals again in Shrewsbury and to put changes to on-street parking on hold.

But he wants the same consideration to be given to Ludlow.

“We face the same draconian proposals as Shrewsbury, increases in on street parking charges, the charging time extended to 8pm and the reduction in time for pop and shop,” said Tim Gill.

“Also, our vibrant market is now being targeted. Ludlow market is one of Ludlow’s core visitor attractions. It helps to create a healthy and vibrant heart to the town and therefore the needs of the market traders must be understood and addressed.

“Yet there is no suggestion that Ludlow’s parking proposals are being looked at very seriously.

Also, why is Ludlow being compared to Shrewsbury in the proposals?

Mr Gill believes it is not appropriate to make direct comparisons between the two towns.

“This is odd as Shrewsbury has over six times the population of Ludlow,” he added.

“Why not compare with Bridgnorth that has a slightly bigger population of about 11,000?

Cynics might say it is because Shropshire Council sees both Ludlow and Shrewsbury as cash cows and to hell with the consequences for their economic well-being.

“Shropshire Council is obsessed with a one model to fit all as far as parking is concerned. It takes no account of the rich diversity of our local towns and their differing needs.

“Nowhere in the proposals is any attempt made by Shropshire Council to assess the economic impact these proposals will have on Ludlow and other towns.

“Over many years, Ludlow has developed an economy that has weathered the decline of the traditional town centre throughout the UK and emerged with an economy that is successful.”

But the Mayor warns that this cannot be guaranteed to continue unless proper regard is given to the interaction between parking and business.

“As successful as Ludlow is, the interplay and balance of the town’s business and tourism economies is critical and any dramatic change in the balance of any of these factors could well lead to a rapid and terminal decline in our overall local economy.

“Shropshire council needs to employ joined up thinking and recognise the importance of a fit for purpose parking strategy not a one model fits all approach.”

The Ludlow Chamber of Commerce has made clear its serious concerns about the impact of any changes to parking arrangements in the town.