THE local Tories seem to be in total disarray. We hear that a leading councillor is describing a controversial parking scheme in Holmfirth as “a nonsense” – a scheme put forward by his fellow councillors, I must add!

I have to say for once I agree with Clr Firth – the whole idea is a nonsense.

No one has yet managed to convince me that anything is to be gained by considering this scheme, let alone spending £70,000 on an 18 month trial. We are told that if public opinion is against it, it will it be dropped – how much will it cost to find out?

Holmfirth has ample parking for all but the busiest of days as anyone who regularly goes into the town can see.

Since the Crown Bottom car park was provided there are very few occasions when it isn’t possible to park.

What we don’t have are many free spaces and that is the crux of the matter as the local businessmen don’t want to pay to park. Most visitors and shoppers don’t have a problem with paying to park and many times I have been told that Holmfirth is cheap compared to many similar towns. Yes there are some towns where parking is free but that is only because there are more spaces than cars.

If local workers are to walk into Holmfirth from Station Road, Greenfield Road, Dunford Road and Cooper Lane then why not park all day down at Sands for free which is only a five minute walk into the centre.

Problem solved!

Cath Ingham

Holmfirth