Over the last few years there have been several TV programmes highlighting the decline in High Street trade with consequent shop closures and a look of desolation to what had once been an area of activity.

Two towns examined were Shepton Mallet and Margate.

In every case one of the main reasons for this decline in trade had been car parking fees and loss of street parking in the town centre together with free parking at out of town supermarkets.

I am fortunate in being within walking distance of the town centre, and when I do need the car, I can usuallypark behind one of them.

It is obvious to any observer that many people park for very short periods outside a shop whilst they nip into the bank or two or three shops nearby.

I suggest this would not happen if they had to pay.

Whilst parking fees would help top up the coffers in the short-term, the closure of shops would cause a huge drop in revenue in the form of lost income from rates and taxes.

Or am I missing something?

I trust that common sense will prevail.

If it works, don’t try to fix it.

M Cripps Jessopp Avenue, Bridport