BREAKING: A local pub, The Flying Dutchman in Queenborough, has made headlines by banning nearly a dozen councillors who supported plans to introduce parking charges in previously free car parks. This bold move follows the announcement that Swale Council intends to implement new fees at several locations, aiming to raise £36,000 annually to address a staggering £1.7 million budget gap.
The council’s proposal includes charging at Park Road and Queenborough Library car parks, with additional fees planned for Little Oyster in Minster, Front Brents in Faversham, Grafton Road in Sittingbourne, and Halfway Road in Halfway. However, these changes will only proceed after a public consultation and subsequent votes by the council’s policy and resources committee.
In an urgent social media statement, the pub announced the ban on councillors who voted for the parking fees, including Cllr Angela Harrison (Lab, Sheerness) and Cllr Lloyd Bowen (Con, Teynham & Lynsted). The pub’s manager, Matthew Nichols, expressed deep concern over how the charges could negatively impact their business. He stated, “We have battled through COVID and then the cost-of-living crisis, but these charges just might be what breaks us.”
Nichols emphasized the significance of free parking for local businesses, saying, “Every pound spent on parking is a pound we will not get. It’s going to do us so much damage.” The pub’s decision to ban the councillors aims to raise awareness about the potential fallout from the parking fees.
Cllr James Hunt, one of the banned councillors, remarked that it was a “real shame” but maintained that the council had made the right decision to keep finances stable. In contrast, Cllr Charles Gibson humorously noted the ban could boost his “street cred,” while acknowledging the pub’s distress.
The situation has sparked outrage among local business owners. Simon Fowle, manager of Bosuns tea room, revealed he gathered over 200 signatures on a petition against the parking charges within days. “We are back here again. What happens to the business? A lot of people are not going to come here,” he lamented.
The reaction from the community has been overwhelming, with many expressing their fears on social media about the implications of the parking fees. Local residents and businesses alike are concerned that the charges could deter customers and ultimately lead to closures.
Moving forward, the council’s public consultation will be closely watched as residents voice their opinions on the proposed parking fees. The Flying Dutchman and other local businesses are rallying support to fight against these measures, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions that do not compromise their livelihoods.
As this story develops, it remains critical for residents and local business owners to stay informed about the council’s decisions and their potential impact on the community. The upcoming discussions could shape the future of Queenborough’s local economy and its vibrant pub culture.
