Chesterfield Car Park Charges

It now costs £1.30 an hour to park in Chesterfield Council's town centre car parks. 30% more than it would cost to park in Mansfield or even Sheffield (where charges are £1 an hour).

No wonder Chesterfield town centre is really struggling. Labour has increased parking charges in Chesterfield to record levels despite campaigning that charges were much too high before they took charge of Chesterfield Council.

They've also slapped market stall rents up by more than 8 times the inflation rate. Not surprisingly that there are now far more empty shops and market stalls than when the Liberal Democrats ran the Council.

Lib Dem Group Leader Cllr Ray Russell says "We believe the town centre and market are very important for residents and visitors and need help when times are tough. They are such an important part of the local economy. But as well as looking at their parking and stall rent charging policies the Council should make a really big effort to help build a strong innovative relationship with other stakeholders such as stall holders, shop owners and businesses. There needs to be a real focus on things that attract folk to come into town, enjoy themselves and spend money. Everyone working together with a common innovative approach could only help."