Bury Conservatives’ proposals to introduce parking charges at the Fairfax Road Car park were last night opposed by Prestwich Area Partnership.

The meeting at the Maccabi Community and Sport club on Bury Old Road, received a presentation from officers on the proposals to introduce parking charges and details of parking provision in the area generally.

Members of the partnership and general public were critical of the introduction of charges that officers confirmed were for financial reasons as well as to discourage Metrolink commuter parking.

Councillors Richard Baum questioned whether the income generated would be spent in Prestwich and it was confirmed that it would go to central funds.

Partnership members urged a Council rethink and proposed that at the very least they should consider a lengthy period free of charge to benefit precinct shoppers and users of public facilities such as Our lady of Grace Church, the Walk In centre, Health centre and library.

The item was brought to a close when Sydney Baigel, representing the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester proposed a motion opposing the introduction of parking charges, which was seconded by St.Mary’s Councillor, Richard Baum. The motion was carried unanimously.

Vic D’Albert, Chair of Prestwich Area Partnership commented, “This motion proposed out of the blue by a community member, just shows the strength of feeling over this issue locally.

“These charges, if introduced would undermine the chances of recovery for the Longfield Precinct, effectively discouraging shoppers. It is false economy seemingly targeted at Prestwich alone. It is only right and proper that if cuts or increased charges need to be made to balance the books then they should be shared across the board – not just dumped onto Prestwich!

“The message from Prestwich couldn’t be clearer , “These proposals are damaging, it’s time for Bury Council to think again!”