Clarkston car parking woes continue

The council launched a public consultation in August following the transfer of parking enforcement from police to the local authority — and resulting complaints of heavy-handedness — but for some, ERC’s enforcement continues to cause concern.

Debra Clapham, former chair of Clarkston Business Improvement District (BID) resigned over the controversial parking regulations last year.

In a letter to The Extra (p28), she writes: “Matters have not improved.

“We were told that the council may assist with free parking in the car park above the main group of shops — not only has this not happened but the parking charges there have been increased.

“The council’s parking enforcement team has, it seems, been instructed to target cars parked in the Clarkston Halls car park in what they claim to be unauthorised bays. There are no signs saying that you cannot park in these bays.

“How can the actions of the council be seen as other than a money making exercise and how do these actions sit with a council which states that it wishes to promote shopping locally?”

Commenting on Facebook, reader Pamela Leroy said: “I just don’t stop — I drive through Clarkston but haven’t been to any shops since parking changed.”

However, over at the Clarkston.com page, Dave Murray said: “I’m all for the parking restrictions. Keeps people moving and attracts more folks.”

ERC had not responded as The Extra went to press.