NEWS

23 December 2009 by Zac Goldsmith

Richmond Park Rally against parking charges

MASS RALLY AGAINST CAR PARKING CHARGES IN RICHMOND PARK SATURDAY, JANUARY 30TH, 10:30AM

Zac Goldsmith, Conservative PPC for Richmond Park and North Kingston, has organised a mass rally for local people to demonstrate their opposition to the proposed introduction of car parking charges in Richmond Park. It will start at Pembroke Lodge at 10:30 on Saturday, January 30th.

He has teamed up with Putney MP, Justine Greening, Deborah Thomas, PPC for Twickenham and Helen Whately, PPC for Kingston, who will all take part. Earlier this year, Zac collected more than 2,000 signatures from residents opposed to the proposals. He delivered them to the Royal Parks Agency before the end of its consultation, which demonstrated opposition from 80% of residents. The decision now rests with the new Minister for Royal Parks, Margaret Hodge, and Zac has urged her to reject the proposal.

Mr Goldsmith said: “Despite thousands of signatures, and a consultation that revealed widespread hostility to the plans, we still need to pile on the pressure. The Parks offer a rare opportunity for people to escape the hustle and bustle. These charges would profoundly change that. I hope many residents join us on this important rally.”