Gloucester Road traders against residents' proposed parking plans
Traders in part of Bristol have launched a campaign against proposals to extend a residents' parking scheme (RPS).
Mayor George Ferguson announced plans to widen RPS coverage, including the Bishopston area, last month. A spokesman for the Gloucester Road traders, Tom Murray, said the idea was a "toxic solution". The city council said the mayor had announced his intention to work with businesses over the proposal. "What this may mean in new areas is not planned as yet. Business engagement is due to start shortly," the spokeswoman added. "In Kingsdown, the scheme works in a certain way to suit the business environment there, and it is very successful. "But Gloucester Road is not the same place, and will not have the same issues to resolve." In response to the traders' comments, Mr Ferguson tweeted: "Toxic? We'll be working closely with local traders to ensure RPS does not damage trade - the reverse has been found to be true." 'Traders will go' Mr Murray said the taskforce will put up posters around the local area highlighting what it calls a "highway high street robbery". "Gloucester Road is one of the most successful independent trading roads in the country," he added. "It is unusual in its array of shops and strong community values. It lacks parking - the most important aspect for any vibrant high street - yet at this moment it still attracts shoppers from all around Bristol, indeed further afield. "Local business is already suffering from the loss of the parking at Bristol North Baths. If this toxic plan comes to fruition, one by one the traders will go and the high street will no longer be present." Residents' parking schemes are already in place in the Kingsdown, Redcliffe and Cotham and a consultation is running for Easton and St Phillip's. The council states on its website that RPS areas are a "key part" of its sustainable transport policy, and make a significant contribution towards tackling congestion and increasing the use of public transport and cycling.