6 December 2024

Statement from We Are Inverurie Business Improvement District (BID): Concerns Over the Removal of Free Parking Measures

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Inverurie BID strongly opposes the decision to remove free parking at Burn Lane, a move we believe will have a profoundly negative impact on our thriving town centre. Our organisation’s core purpose is to enhance the local business community, developing projects and services that bolster Inverurie’s trading environment. This decision runs counter to these objectives and risks undoing the hard-won success that Inverurie has achieved as one of Scotland’s most vibrant town centres.

We strongly voiced and shared the concerns raised by residents and local businesses, who fear this policy will discourage shoppers from visiting Inverurie, push parking into residential streets and ultimately drive trade away to other areas or online platforms. Free parking has been a critical factor in supporting local businesses, enabling convenience for customers and fostering a welcoming, accessible town centre.

While we understand Aberdeenshire Council's need to address budget shortfalls, we are unconvinced that imposing additional charges is the appropriate solution. The estimated revenue gain pales in comparison to the potential long-term damage this policy may inflict on local businesses, many of which operate on thin margins. A thriving business community contributes significantly to local employment, economic growth and council revenue through business rates—resources that are jeopardised by decisions like these.

Moreover, the claim that pay-and-display schemes increase footfall is contradicted by the lived experience of Inverurie business owners. Free parking encourages longer visits and greater spending at local shops, cafés, and services. Removing it risks turning the tide, leading to fewer visitors and diminished revenue for businesses.

We urge Aberdeenshire Council to reconsider this policy and engage in meaningful dialogue with local stakeholders to explore alternative solutions that do not jeopardise the success of Inverurie’s town centre. Measures such as introducing time-limited free parking, subsidised permits for workers or revisiting council expenditure priorities may offer more balanced approaches to resolving the budget gap without undermining the local economy.

Inverurie BID remains committed to supporting our business community and protecting the vibrancy of our town centre. We call on the council to act in the best interests of Inverurie and its residents by prioritising sustainable, business-friendly policies.

Image: Kirstie Topp/DC Thomson