Impassioned campaigners railing against controversial proposals to end free parking in Kilwinning insisted they were “exploiting communities for short-term financial gain.”
And Tom Biondi and Graeme Milliken were backed up by Kilwinning cllr Donald Reid who told Thursday’s Audit and Scrutiny Committee the plans from North Ayrshire Council for charges in the Alsmwall Road and Oxenward car parks would “kill off the town centre”.
Now the proposals are set to be looked at closely by councillors as the build-up continues to next month’s budget.
Nearly 1100 signatures have been secured through the petition organised by long-established business Dino & Sons and employee Tom Biondi, who vented his anger at the moves in front of Thursday’s Audit and Scrutiny Committee.
Mr Biondi said he was disappointed to be only told of his invitation to the meeting on Wednesday at 3.05pm – after the shop had closed and he had been rushed in his response.
He said: “Myself and Graeme Milliken, on behalf of Dinno & Sons are once again addressing the council on behalf of Kilwinning against its continued attempts to impose parking chargers on the shoppers, workers, traders and residents of Kilwinning Main Street.
“This is the second time in just as many years we’ve found ourselves in the position of needing to raise our voices against this unfair proposal.
“The land at Oxenward car park opposite the college was transferred to the then Cunninghame District Council through a compulsory purchase order.
“This transfer was made with the full support of the local shop owners and residents who an produced the correspondence with the then council to confirm this, that the land would be used to support the growth of Kilwinning.
“It’s essential for the council to honour that commitment and protect our community from additional financial burdens.
“This is not just about two pounds (the charge which would be imposed) – it’s about fairness, sustainability and the right of our communities to not be exploited for short-term financial gain.”
Kilwinning cllr Donald Reid is firmly opposed to the proposals.
He said: “I understand this is a budget consultation and these are just proposals coming forward. To introduce charges I feel would kill off the town centre is what I feel. The petitioners are fearful of that and I am too.”
Thomas Reaney, Head of Neighbourhood Services, said: “This exercise is out for engagement as part of the council’s budget consultation for 2025-26, no decisions have been made and feedback to the consultation will help in informing any decisions made by the council. The proposal is to introduce car parking charges at some council-owned car parks – three in Irvine, two in Kilwinning, two in Saltcoats and one in Largs.
“Anyone with a disabled badge will park free or charge. The benefits are a more regular flow of car parking availability and accessibility to town centres which should help business and use of public transport should help with climate change.”
The committee agreed to send the petition to Cabinet as part of this year’s budget engagement process.