Burnley FC fans facing parking fees

A decision by the council to extend the charging period for town centre car parks – and patrol them with wardens during evening matches – has been criticised by several groups.

The proposed changes were first brought to light by Burnley Civic Trust which objected to the plans, which its members believe will also hit theatre goers and businesses. The Off Street Parking Places Order extends charges for parking in the main town centre car parks such as the Thompson Centre, Centenary Way and King Street, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Despite the Trust’s objections, the order was made at a hearing on November 4th.

Mr Edward Walton, vice-chairman of the Trust, said: “The council has made it clear its intention in making this order is to take advantage of parking in Burnley for football matches and other significant events in town.

“It was quite clear from the statements made by council officials at the hearing the council does not intend to monitor parking other than on match days, except periodically.

“This means the public will be afraid of parking at any time in the evening in case a penalty notice is issued. This does not seem to be fair.”

As well as football fans, visitors to Burnley Mechanics and town centre bars and restaurants will also be hit by the charging. Despite this, Burnley Council refused to elaborate in any great detail on its decision.

Coun. Charles Bullas, chairman of the traffic regulation order sub-committee, said: “We took all the comments the Civic Trust made into account, and have made our decision accordingly.”