New parking fees are introduced despite hundreds protesting

INCREASED parking charges came into effect this week despite a mass outpouring of protest in Macclesfield against the move.

- ALEX SCAPENS

As of Monday, May 26, most Cheshire East Council car parks saw fees extended during the week to cover evenings (now 8am to 10pm) and also introduced on Sundays.

Consultation on these changes sparked a large amount of opposition, particularly in Macclesfield where 412 people responded with an objection and only a small handful expressed support.

According to figures, this was almost as many as all other towns in the borough put together, with the next highest being Alsager with 84, perhaps a reflection of our town's long-held belief its motorists get an especially rough parking deal.

The extra charges began in the same week it was revealed that the council's £11m car park in Crewe was being used for free by 200 of its staff.

Plenty of residents took to Facebook to express their frustration.

One said: "Car parking always arouses strong feelings but in this case it's the sheer scale of the response from Macc residents compared to other towns.

"It's absolutely extraordinary and demands a response - not necessarily to change the policy, that's been done, but we need an explanation and some action."