'Traffic wardens' to protest against parking scheme

Mrs Axelby, who is expecting her second child next month, said there was 'little difference or improvement' to previous proposals consulted on earlier this year. She said: "We will be providing residents with the opportunity to fill out letters of objection and answering any questions they may have. We will also be encouraging residents to go to the public exhibitions. We are trying to be fair about it but at the end of the day it's gone too far."
Opposition centres on the introduction of the charges, the visual impact of the new meters in the picturesque town, fears about the economic effect on businesses and a lack of time to respond to the new plans.
In the Spring a petition containing 435 names was handed in to the county council's offices demanding a re-think on the originals plans, which were put on hold in April because of what the council described as 'misinformation in the area'. The plans will go ahead early in the new year if there is no major opposition, the council has said.
A band of around 20 objectors are expected to be dressed in yellow and black uniforms and will hold banners and balloons at the demonstration on the pavement outside the Memorial Gardens from noon on Saturday.
One of their supporters is Patricia Rowe, owner of ladieswear shop Beautifully Active in Whielden Street. She said: "The recession is still ongoing. To have this happening at the same time as the VAT increase is detrimental to small businesses."
A summary of the new plans was released to residents in a letter from the county council. Householders will be restricted to two permits per household with the first costing £52 and a second £78 and in some places will have to share parking bays with business permit holders. The same charges apply for business and school permits but they can buy additional ones for at the cost of £117 each. A lower rate season ticket is being proposed to be introduced in Dovecote car park.
Jim Stevens, BCC's head of transport, said: "We understand that the residents of Amersham Old Town are planning a demonstration about proposals for a new parking management scheme in their area. Buckinghamshire County Council and Chiltern District Council have worked in partnership to design a scheme to address parking issues in the Old Town, reflecting feedback we have received from the public.
"A public exhibition, where residents can discuss in detail and contribute to the proposals, is planned for November 20 and 21 at St Mary's Church Rooms and we encourage all interested parties to attend, participate and provide feedback."
The county council's exhibitions will reveal the full plans on November 20 between 2pm and 8pm and on November 21 between 10am and 2pm.
The Examiner launched its 'free not fee' campaign in February 2008 and continues to oppose the principle of on-street charges.
Do you mind paying to park in Amersham? Leave a comment below.