Eaton Park Charge: 91% against but Labour are going ahead anyway
The Local Liberal Democrat Focus Team have branded the city council’s consultation “a sham”, after 91% opposition was waived by the Labour administration.
It has also emerged that anyone who opposed the scheme in consultation has since received an email from the council listing some reasons why the plan will proceed anyway, and remarking that unless they hear back within 14 days, they will assume they now back the scheme. Alongside the news that the council spent £30k on implementation fees before the consultation had even concluded, local people could be forgiven for feeling the whole ordeal has left a sour taste in the mouth.
Lib Dem candidate for the local elections James Hawketts said:
What’s the point of holding a consultation if you’re so set in your view you’ll ignore such an overwhelming majority in opposition? The council has wasted everyone’s time, as well as public money. But worst of all Labour has entirely disregarded the opinions of their constituents, and of local sport and community groups who insist the charge will be detrimental.
Lib Dem candidate for University, James Hawketts
In February, Norwich Parks Tennis’ request for a conciliatory first 30 minutes free was rejected, and they warn their future will be jeopardised.
Locals are also worried about the buildup of spillover parking into their streets.