'Crazy' car parking rules spark action

Businesses say they're unhappy with the lack of parking in the Village, as well as the 20 minute parking restriction on the Main Street and the introduction of traffic wardens.

The petition, which received 296 signatures, is to be presented to North Lanarkshire Council's planning and transport committee today (Wed-nesday).

Angela Darar, owner of Becky D's Hair and Beauty on the Main Street, signed the petition. Her business has been on the Main Street for over five years.

She said: "There is just not enough parking in the Village. The biggest problem is that established businesses, who have been here for a long time, are losing custom. Not only this, but the presence of the traffic wardens is also putting people off. People are coming in here to get their hair done and are getting tickets because of the 20 minute restrictions. There has also been confusion over some of the signs relating to parking.

"We've spent a lot of money on the decor of the outside of the shop, but if people aren't stopping then it's a waste."

Michael MacPherson, who has owned the Village Gentry barber shop, also on Main Street, for 10 years, agrees with the petition.

He said: "I understand that there is a lack of space in the Village but the problem is that when people park on Main Street they are only allowed to stay for 20 minutes, and a lot of the streets nearby have no parking whatsoever. The car park round the back is free but it's always full by 9am as the office workers in the Village all park there. We feel this has affected trade."

Central Scotland MSP Cathie Craigie has also been contacted by shop owners and is working with businesses to help alleviate the problem.

At today's meeting councillors will discuss the potential introduction of a parking management regime.