Parking putting off Clarkston shoppers?

Justin Valmassoi, of cafe Something, took to Facebook to rant about a customer almost forced to abandon his takeaway coffee to escape a parking fine.

Justin said: “We line the pockets of the council so they can use that money not to make parking bays along the pavement, which would have prevented the previous BID committee from resigning in anger and actually improved business in this charity shop wonderland.”

His rant prompted heated debate, with some defending wardens — while others said they no longer visit Clarkston because of parking woes.

Commenting on The Extra’s Facebook page, Nicola McFadyen said: “If parking was better — and by better, I mean existent — then more businesses other than charity shops would see it as a viable option.”

Another Clarkston business owner suggested: “Maybe the council will spread some Christmas spirit with an extended break for the wardens?”

However, an ERC spokeswoman responded: “The restrictions now in place are the result of an extensive review, public consultation and legal process in Clarkston and Busby — there are no plans to further review the on-street restrictions recently put in place.”

Clarkston BID agrees that parking is a “persistent concern”.

A spokesman added: “The BID is committed to working with ERC to ensure any concerns are taken on board when it comes to this and any other issue that may potentially affect trade.

“The lack of adequate town centre parking is a problem faced by many BID areas throughout Scotland — one for which no foolproof solution has been found.

“Many business owners believe that customer numbers during the usually busy winter months have been most greatly affected by the adverse weather, and we hope that people will brave these conditions to support their local businesses in what are tough times for everyone.

“We are working on a number of events that can hopefully boost footfall in the town throughout the year.”