TRADERS’ plans for a day of free parking in Weston town centre to boost pre-Christmas business have been blocked – and Mercury readers are not happy about it.

Tim Walker, of High Street store Cecil Walker, was among several businessmen who last week told of their disappointment that the idea had been vetoed by North Somerset Council.

A number of Mercury readers this week took to Facebook and the paper’s own website to criticise the refusal.

“Mendip District Council used to have free parking for two weeks leading up to Christmas... last year they had free parking from 2pm in the week leading up to Christmas... hopefully this year it will be the same... wouldn’t really hurt North Somerset to do something similar... at least it’d be a token gesture.” – Sean Miller.

“It’s all about the MONEY! Waiting for the day when NSC unveil plans to bulldoze what’s left of the once beautiful Italian Gardens and tarmac it for more parking space.” – Paul Harris.

“Needs to be two weeks before Christmas and two after to help the shops.” – Amanda Timmins.

“Small gesture, big appreciation.” – Zoe Clayden.

“Cribbs is just up the road and it’s free there.” – Jason Pole.

“Just for one day? What would be the point? Everyone will want to go that same day and there still won’t be any parking.” – Sammie Lee.

“Well they didn’t need to offer any days, did they; unless you’re buying second hand jumpers or coffee as presents it’s hardly going to entice.” – Jeffrey Smith.

Join the debate by commenting below or by ‘liking’ the Mercury on Facebook.