Chatham businesses say parking fee rise causing dip in trade

May 24, 2026 - 04:34

Business owners in Chatham are reporting a noticeable drop in customer numbers, which they directly link to the recent increase in parking charges. Local shopkeepers and cafe owners say the higher fees are driving shoppers away, with many choosing to visit out-of-town retail parks or simply stay home.

The sentiment on the high street is one of frustration. Traders claim that the timing of the decline in footfall matches exactly with when the new parking rates came into effect. Some say they have seen a reduction of up to 20 percent in daily visitors. One owner of a family-run bakery noted that regular customers have complained about the cost of parking for even a short visit, calling it "too expensive for a quick errand."

Critics argue that the council is prioritizing revenue over the health of the local economy. While the authority has defended the increase as necessary for maintaining car parks and funding other services, business owners warn that the move is self-defeating. They argue that fewer shoppers mean less spending, which in turn leads to lower business rates and tax income for the area.

Without a change in policy, many fear that the high street could see more empty shops. For now, traders are left hoping that the council will reconsider the charges before the situation worsens further.