Like many other towns, Ludlow has experienced one of the most difficult financial years in living memory, a drop in customer spending, and unexpected and lengthy road closures resulting in unpredictable footfall.

Sundays are vital to many businesses in Ludlow. It is a destination town which should be welcoming visitors with a relaxed atmosphere especially on a Sunday.

With this in mind I urge Shropshire Council to reconsider its proposal to charge, (for parking on the street), as it clearly discriminates against Ludlow.

Why is free parking on a Sunday being introduced in Market Drayton, Whitchurch, Ellesmere, Wem, Church Stretton and Much Wenlock when the very reverse is being planned for Ludlow? In addition Ludlow has the added and constant pressure of free parking in nearby Leominster and on some days in Tenbury Wells. Interestingly the council at Tenbury has recognised that a recent lengthy bridge closure there has affected trade and chosen to support traders with free parking. What a refreshing approach! Perhaps Shropshire Council might like to adopt a similar one.

I am not aware of any consultation having taken place.

Certainly no individual shop keepers have been approached and nor has the chamber of trade. Perhaps you could let me know just how many people have been consulted and how that consultation was undertaken.

The recommendation suggests that Shropshire Council “does not propose to increase the level of income”. Presumably this is because the wardens who will administer it will be on double time and cancel out the income.

So why introduce a charge?

MAGGIE WRIGHT, Deli on the Square, Ludlow