Call to ditch all car parking fees in East Dunbartonshire

A joint statement from the SNP Group on East Dunbartonshire Council alongside SNP MSPs and MPs, Rona Mackay, Gil Paterson, Amy Callaghan and Stuart McDonald implores the Council to “step up to the plate” to 
assist struggling businesses over the holiday period.

With East Dunbartonshire scheduled to emerge from Tier 4 protections on Friday, December 11, non-essential businesses across the area can then commence trading in time for Christmas.

The Scottish Government had made available grants of up to £3000 for businesses forced to close during the protection period.

East Dunbartonshire Council recently announced that parking would be free on Saturday’s until December 19, prompting the SNP politicians to urge further action from the local authority.

In a joint statement from all East Dunbartonshire SNP representatives, they said: “There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic and the necessary protections that followed have been incredibly tough for businesses across East Dunbartonshire.

“Whilst the Scottish Government has stepped in to support those in need, we must see East Dunbartonshire Council step up to the plate and scrap parking charges in totality until 2021.

“The current council plan to suspend charges on only three Saturdays does not go anywhere near far enough.

“We are submitting targeted proposals that would encourage footfall in our town centres, supporting local businesses and residents alike through the holiday 
period when they need it most.

“We can be in no doubt that the pandemic is the greatest challenge we have face in our lifetimes.

“In response, we must see urgent action from the council to ensure those who can support our local economy at this crucial time can do so without any barriers or charges.