The Chamber of Trade for Market Drayton is set to put forward two proposals to North Shropshire District Council to try and solve the town’s parking problems.
At a meeting held this week, the committee debated a selection of proposals to determine which would be best for the town.
The first proposal to go forward will see the introduction of a barrier to the car parks on Frogmore Lane and Queen Street.
Shoppers will receive one hour’s free parking, and then be charged for time parked over and above the hour.
The second proposal will see the meters in the car parks remain, with shoppers given two hours free parking.
Shop owners in the town say their businesses have been crippled by the parking enforcement, which is putting off potential shoppers.
Trader Madeline Grainger urged local residents and shop owners to write to the council to add weight to the proposals.
A petition started by Mrs Grainger, owner of Temptations jewellery shop in Queen Street, has collected more than 3,700 signatures in favour of getting parking charges withdrawn.
She said over the past two to three years, more than 40 businesses in the town had closed down because charges were driving shoppers away.
“It’s really bad,” she said. “We have a lovely historic market town, with some lovely shops and friendly service but people are staying away.
“It is important we get behind these proposals and people voice their concerns by writing to the district council or by writing to me.
“This is the time to voice our views. Without people’s support, we will not be able to change the present situation.”
