‘No thought for the elderly’ - Residents react to car parking changes in South Tyneside
Shields Gazette readers have reacted to car parking changes in the borough.
Residents have reacted as South Tyneside Council’s new car parking charges come into force across the borough this week.
From Monday, June 8, motorists will get the first hour of parking in South Shields town centre for free, followed by a flat rate of £1 per hour thereafter.
Then from Tuesday, June 9, South Shields seafront car parking tariffs will rise from £1.20 per hour and £6 for all day to £1.60 per hour and £8 all day.
Some residents have expressed their concerns at a cashless system whereas others have called for the free parking hour to be extended.
This is what you’ve had to say via the Shields Gazette Facebook page:
James Miller: “Absolutely shocking - have they not thought of the older generation that don't do contactless?
“My parents wouldn't have a clue.”
Lynne Dorothy: “Cashless is no good, some people haven't got smart phones and the elderly won't be able manage.”
Andy Sharp: “Free parking in the town - great for local business and people on a budget.”
Stephen Sewell: “Encourage tourists and make parking free all the time.”
Ian Curry: “£8 to park all day. Wow.”
Lynne Thompson Kelly: “My parents will not be able to go now.
“They don’t use smartphones and have no way to pay. They love a coffee at Minchella’s and this has blocked them from going.”
Ian Mark: “No thought for the elderly who don’t use mobile phones.”
Michelle Ann Johnson: “Good for the town centre even though there's not many shops but it’s so sad for the seaside that people really want to use.”
Janette Coombs: “It should be parking free in all car parks in South Shields - it would encourage people into the borough.”
Brenda Markie: “What about the elderly who look forward to their shopping day? Now they can't get parked with cash as they haven't embraced full technology.
“Wrong in my opinion.”
Dana May: “Car parking charges kill the high street.
“Why would someone come to South Shields to do their shopping when they can go to Metrocentre and park for free?”