An idea to allow motorists to park on double yellow lines could help boost Spalding’s high street.
But there would need to be some common sense used by enforcement officers to allow shoppers a little bit of leeway, according to one Spalding businessman.
Pete Williams, landlord of the town’s Punchbowl pub, has previously been outspoken in his views that strict parking enforcement can put people off coming into the town centre.
He said: “I think letting people park on double yellow lines for up to 15 minutes is a brilliant idea, as long as it is not just another way for the Government to make money out of the poor shopper.
“There would need to be some leeway so that people who stay for five minutes too long are not fined.
“What kind of society do we live in when the fine for outstaying the allotted time in a parking bay is higher than you would get for shoplifting?
“That’s just not right and it certainly doesn’t encourage people to come into town and take their time looking round, seeing what the local shops have to offer and perhaps enjoying a cup of coffee or something to eat.
“People are frightened to death of getting a fine, which not only ruins your day but your whole week.”
Parking and waiting on double yellow lines is prohibited – unless stated – for all vehicles except for those making commercial deliveries and pick-ups, blue badge holders and the emergency services.
It is believed the Government’s communities secretary Eric Pickles feels “over-aggressive” parking enforcement is one of the reasons some high streets are struggling.
Conservative ministers are now considering new guidelines encouraging councils to consider a “grace period” of between five and 15 minutes.