Call for U-turn on return of pay and display parking charges for Elgin

MORAY councillors are being urged to make a U-turn on a decision to retintroduce pay and display parking charges in Elgin from August.

The charges, which have been suspended due to coronavirus, will come back in from August 1 in the towns's 15 pay and display car parks.

However, Gill Neill, chief executive of Elgin Business Improvement District (BID) said: "This is sad news for the businesses who are already under so much pressure. We know from messages already received just how upset everyone is about this situation and have already contacted council leaders, our MP and MSP to raise our concerns.

"The businesses have been through their most difficult experience in the last few months, sadly some have already been forced to close their doors and for many others staying open is a daily struggle."

Mrs Neill plans to write to every councillor to ask them to reconsider.

And in a direct message to the town's business owners, she added: "Town centres have a huge economic and social impact and are critical to a healthy regional economy. Your businesses drive that economy, keep people employed and are the lifeblood of the area and we want to give you a chance to put your argument directly to the councillors."

If they too feel the decision is wrong, she is asking business owners to send her their feelings to be included in the open letter to councillors.

"A direct plea from you to the councillors about why this is the wrong decision and your fears about how it will impact you and the fight you are currently having to keep your business afloat and your staff in jobs."

Pay and display charges returning to Elgin

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