MORE than 1000 people have backed a petition calling for a halt to East Dunbartonshire Council’s bid to increase parking charges at Bearsden Cross.

Bearsden Cross Traders, the campaigners who began the Change.org petition, claim the abolition of the current two hours free programme coupled with the hourly rate increase would have a “very significant consequence” on local businesses.

Angry residents have hit out at the Roman Road site fees, branding them “stupid” with a total of 1489 having signed the petition so far.

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The organisers said: “The increase in parking charges and the abolition of the first two hours that are currently free could have a very significant consequence for our community and local businesses.”

Susan Dempster, who signed the petition, agreed stating: “I am not going to pay £1 just to park for five minutes to go to the bank or the chemist.

“It will be cheaper to go elsewhere. How does that help the local shops?

“Even 20 or 30 minutes free would make more sense.”

At present, parking is free for the first two hours with commuters then having to pay £1 for up to three hours, £2 for up to four hours and £5 for stays over four hours.

However, the slight increase, which comes into play later this year, will see drivers pay £1 for up to two hours, £2 for up to three hours and £3 for up to four hours between Monday to Saturday.

It’s an increase, the council says, which has been introduced to deal with “demand for greater turnover”.

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Thomas Glen, deputy chief executive of East Dunbartonshire Council, said: “The council continues to liaise with traders and businesses across East Dunbartonshire on a range of issues – including parking – to provide support and advice.

“There are a number of parking options in our town centres.” - from short stay to long stay - and the council monitors use and turnover.”

To sign the petition, visit change.org/p/east-dunbartonshire-increased-parking-charges.