Public participation
The Council welcomes contributions from members of the public. This meeting is open to the public, who may ask a question or make a statement. Written notice of questions or statements should be given to Yamina Rhouati of Democratic Services by 12.00 noon on Friday 22 January. Anyone wishing to ask a question or make a statement should contact the officer named above.
Minutes:
The Leader explained that as usual, she would be happy to allow the public to speak at the start of each item if they wished to do so.
Mrs Barbara Hewitt from the Mere and District Chamber of Trade attended the meeting to voice her concerns over the introduction of car parking charges in rural towns such as Mere. She considered that such a move would add to the pressure of businesses who relied on passing trade and were already struggling to survive. Mrs Hewitt presented a letter from the Chamber which included results of a survey carried out by the Chamber to establish the use of the two car parks in Mere by residents and businesses.
Councillor Dick Tonge, Cabinet member for Highways and Transport referred to a similar presentation at the Environment Select Committee on 12 January 2010 and confirmed that all comments and representations received would be taken into account as part of the consultation. In the meantime, Councillor Tonge undertook to provide a written acknowledgement of the Letter and survey results.