Call For Action Over Parking Charges

A growing row over parking charges has prompted Seaton Chamber to call on councillors and the town's MP to step in, warning that businesses are losing customers while drivers are parking in unsafe locations to avoid paying.

The organisation has written to Seaton Town Council, East Devon District Council and the area's MP following what it says is increasing concern among its members about the impact of higher parking charges on Seaton seafront.

In a letter dated Sunday, June 28, Seaton Chamber says businesses, particularly those operating along the seafront and surrounding areas, have reported a noticeable decline in footfall and trade.

According to the chamber, visitors and residents have told businesses that increased parking costs are discouraging them from stopping, staying and spending time in the town, affecting local livelihoods during an already challenging economic period.

The letter also raises concerns about what it describes as an increase in unsafe and obstructive parking on the road to Axmouth. It says drivers appear to be avoiding the seafront car parks because of the higher charges, creating potential risks for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

While acknowledging that parking charges on the seafront are set by Devon County Council, the chamber is asking local councillors to formally raise the issue with the county council and represent the concerns of residents, visitors and businesses.

The letter states: "Seaton's seafront is one of our greatest assets. Ensuring it remains accessible, welcoming, and safe is essential for the wellbeing of our community and the sustainability of our local economy."

It concludes by saying the chamber would welcome the opportunity to discuss the issue further and work collaboratively on "a constructive way forward".

In a Facebook post accompanying the letter, Seaton Chamber thanked residents and businesses who had shared their experiences and said it would continue to update members and the wider community as responses are received.

The chamber's letter was addressed to representatives at East Devon District Council and forms part of a wider appeal to local decision-makers to reconsider the impact of the current parking charging structure.

Seaton Town Council say they will discuss the issue at their town council meeting on Monday, July 6.