Residents rally against Cornwall Council’s plan to privatize car parks
Cornwall: The council is looking to hand over 28 car parks to a private company. They say it’ll help manage costs and improve services. But many locals aren’t buying it.
A new group, Sort It Out, Don’t Sell It Off, is pushing back hard. They’re worried that this move will lead to higher fees and less access for everyone. The council is asking for public input, but the group plans to keep fighting long after the consultation ends.
The idea is to shift management to Corserv, which would then hire a private firm to enforce parking fees. This has raised eyebrows in several communities where these car parks are located.
Residents are concerned that handing over these spaces could hurt local businesses and make it tougher for people to access beaches and town centers. They feel it’s a big deal that affects their daily lives.
Jessie Joe Jacobs from the campaign said, “This isn’t just about money; it’s about our communities.” She believes this could worsen the cost of living crisis in Cornwall.
Heather Workman, a local from Newquay, echoed these sentiments. She feels the council isn’t listening to the community’s concerns and is moving forward without enough public awareness.
The campaign is urging everyone in Cornwall to get involved and voice their opinions. They’re also planning meetings to spread the word about the potential risks of this proposal.
“We need Cornwall Council to fix their budget without selling off our community assets,” Jacobs added. “Once these car parks are gone, they’re gone for good.”
