MP raises cheaper town centre parking option

THE USE of money generated by an additional business rate levied on out-of-town supermarkets could be used to provide free or reduced parking in town centres.

That is one option currently being followed up by MP Andrew George, among others.

Mr George, who has welcomed The Cornishman's town centre initiative, has already written to the town council with suggestions following a review of plans to revitalise town centres by the Government's shopping "czar" Mary Portas.

Mr George told The Cornishman: "Congratulations on your town centre campaign."

He said he had already spoken to Government ministers about options which might be available to local towns. "I am also following up an option which includes the proposal to give the local community the power (through the local authority) to levy an additional business rate on out-of-town retailers to take account of the significant advantage they have in the provision of expansive free car parking outside their stores.

"The income from this rate would then be hypothecated (ring-fenced) to provide free or reduced parking in the nearest town centre car parks.

"This provision would ensure that it was the store and its shareholders who met the additional cost rather than customers and would address an unfairness in the existing planning and business rating system which clearly tips the balance massively in favour of out-of-town stores."

Mr George said he would also encourage local town councils to look carefully at the establishment of a genuine loyalty scheme for town centre shops, including shared website and product order and delivery systems for those who find it difficult to get into town to shop.