**High Street Traders Warn of £7,000 Loss over Proposed Cardiff Parking Charges**
Independent businesses lining Whitchurch High Street in Cardiff are joining forces to oppose the local council’s proposed introduction of parking charges that many say could devastate their incomes. Currently, district car parks serving the high street offer two hours’ free parking, making it easier for residents and visitors to shop, dine, and carry out errands without incurring extra costs. However, Cardiff Council has indicated plans to scrap this free parking period as part of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), suggesting a new rate of £1 for the first hour at facilities such as Merthyr Road and Penlline Road pay-and-display car parks.
The potential introduction of fees, particularly during a period of economic uncertainty, has unsettled local shopkeepers who worry about the knock-on effect on footfall and profits. Alwen Lewis, owner of Iechy Da – an environmentally-focused refill shop – voiced her concerns, explaining that such a move could end up costing her business as much as £7,000 annually. With already razor-thin profit margins, Lewis noted that she herself earns below the minimum wage, prioritising staff salaries in order to keep the shop running.
“For businesses like mine, every pound counts,” Lewis said. “The customers I stand to lose are often popping in for small purchases under £2. If the price of parking becomes an additional pound, people simply won’t think it’s worthwhile – no one wants to pay more to park than they’re spending in the shop. These small but frequent transactions accumulate, and if those disappear, so does a crucial part of my income.”
The collective mood among traders reflects anxiety and frustration. Many believe that small businesses have continued to struggle post-pandemic, and parking charges could tip some over the edge. Local shop owners argue that two hours of free parking allows shoppers to browse multiple businesses, from grocers to newsagents, without facing time pressure. Reducing or eliminating this free period, they say, would result in shorter visits and reduced opportunity for spontaneous spending – something independent retailers rely upon.
“All we’re asking for is a compromise,” Lewis added. “We understand the council’s financial situation, so we suggested reducing the free period to an hour instead of two. That’s usually sufficient time for people to support several local shops in one trip. However, taking it away entirely, or making the free window too short, just doesn’t make sense for traders who are vital to the community’s character and economy.”
The debate quickly gained traction among local residents. Over 1,300 people signed a petition opposing the proposed changes, which was presented as evidence of the strength of local feeling on the matter. In response, Councillor Marc Palmer offered a revised solution: rather than abolishing free parking entirely, the council now proposes to allow 30 minutes of free parking at affected district car parks.
“This new proposal is a direct result of the feedback we’ve received from residents and businesses,” Councillor Palmer announced. “The emphasis is on accommodating short stays, whether for school drop-offs, healthcare appointments, or picking up essentials, without incurring a charge.” He also confirmed that other support measures, such as special permits for community groups, would remain in place to alleviate some of the impact.
However, business owners argue that 30 minutes falls woefully short of what is required to support local commerce. Many feel this window is still inadequate for patrons wishing to visit several shops or attend appointments. With the council set to consult further on the revised TRO, traders plan to maintain their campaign for a longer free period, determined to ensure the survival of high street independent businesses.
The situation represents a microcosm of the familiar conflict played out in towns and cities across the UK: councils balancing the need for revenue and sustainable transport with the survival of cherished local high streets. As debate continues and the consultation process unfolds, the voices of traders, residents, and decision-makers alike highlight the complex ripple effects that local policies can have on community life.
The next steps involve detailed consultation, with the council promising to invite further public commentary before any final decision is made. Until then, the existing two-hour free parking arrangement will remain in place, providing a temporary reprieve for Whitchurch’s embattled shopkeepers and the customers who support them.
As Cardiff continues to weigh its options, the eyes of other city suburbs will be watching closely, alert to any precedent set for high streets facing similar challenges in the months ahead.