Anger and debate over the closure of seven unauthorised long-stay commuter car parks in Leeds continues to gather momentum.
A Facebook page - called Save Our Cheap Car Parks in Leeds - has been launched following concerns about the closures from workers, businesses and shoppers.
Comments on the page include angry resident Ali Short, who says:
"I feel extremely let down by Leeds council, it's a complete disgrace. I and many others i know who park in leeds cheap carparks are prepared to help this fight this cause. please keep me updated on any progress or help needed."
Jen Pope added:
"I think the current parking situation is a disgraceful, I'm really upset about the imminent closures. I currently park in Elite parking and have done for some time and would be devastated if this car park becomes effected by the recent chaos being caused by Leeds council. I will fully support this cause and I hope everybody else will."
As reported here on Friday, Leeds council has announced a review of its long-stay car parking policy, but the review will not address the closure of the seven unauthorised long-stay car parks to the south of the city centre, which house around 2,500 cars.
The decision to serve enforcement notices on those car parks has already been ratified by a government planning inspector at an appeal, and the long-stay facilities will close in January as announced. The inspector agreed that four of the car parks could be used for short-stay parking of up to five hours - with a £25 penalty for anyone staying more than five hours. Consent is temporary for 18 months.
Councillors have been told by planning officers that the lost 2,500 spaces could be accommodated by other council car parks in the city centre.
The decision has sparked much online debate since being reported here last Monday. There's also a lively debate going on over at Leeds Forum. The issue was also debated when I spoke on Radio Leeds about the issue at Friday teatime, and has also been debated in the Yorkshire Evening Post.
What do you think? Have your say in the comments section below.
