A BUSINESS owner has criticised the increased parking charges in the Lake District, saying they will hurt businesses and workers alike.

Tim Hardy, who runs the Fitzwilliam Gallery in the Lake District, said the prices for parking permits are already too high, and now they’re being increased, the impact will be felt more.

He said: “There’s a bias against businesses in the Lake District National Park.

“It’s not how it affects us, it's really putting pressure on people who travel to work here as people on minimum wage.

“I have been pressing the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) to have a lower-cost permit so people from more deprived areas like Workington or Barrow to get into the Lakes for work in the hospitality industry, which is desperate for staff.

“The LDNPA is just completely disregarding this.

“A lot of the hotel staff in the Lakes have been putting on employment meetings in Barrow and Workington, and one of the main concerns is with parking.”

The charges in force now are as follows:

  • One car in one car: £300, was previously £250
  • One car in all car parks: £450, was previously £400
  • Any one car in one car park: £550, was previously £500.

Mark said, however, a permit for any one car in any one car park cost him £250, and he now has to pay £600.

The LDNPA said this is a new ‘flexible’ permit, introduced alongside the new rates, but which was issued to him as a gesture of goodwill.

Tim said this should be offered to everyone at that lower price.

Nathan Leadbeater, car park supervisor for LDNPA, said: “All car park charges go towards keeping the National Park special for the future.

“We hadn’t increased the price of our car parking permits since 2018 and for 2023 we have increased all permits by a flat £50.”

On the £600 permit, he said it’s comparable with local councils offering a similar permit, and added: “We’re confident this will support local businesses as this permit is transferable between cars, so if you pay for your staff to park, this permit can be shared between vehicles.

“Or if you have a business in multiple locations, this will allow for parking in any of our National Park Authority car parks.”

When asked if he thinks a reduction would be mutually beneficial for businesses, workers, and the LDNPA, he said: “We welcome feedback on our car parking offer, and we'll continue to consider how we can best support vibrant economies with our permit system.”

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