Published: December 12, 2008
Shoppers urged to 'buy in Burnham' amid concern over parking decision

Burnham-On-Sea's Chamber of Trade this week urged Christmas shoppers to 'buy in Burnham' amid concern that a decision by the district council to scrap free parking in the town's car parks may hurt trade over the festive period.

Chamber Chairman Alex Turco said shoppers should not be put off visiting the town after Sedgemoor District Council's decision to scrap free parking in the weekends leading up to Christmas.

"We would urge people to support our town's traders during these hard times, and to enjoy Burnham's wonderful town centre Christmas Lights while they visit," Mr Turco told Burnham-On-Sea.com. "There is still free parking along The Esplanade although not, disappointingly, in the car parks at weekends."

Sedgemoor District Council spokeswoman Claire Faun told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "We have a financial defecit of £1.2m this year and need to find savings during the current financial climate."

"The council made the decision not to provide free parking in Burnham in order to help meet those savings."

The council had previously offered free car parking on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of December at car parks in the town including Lynton Road (pictured right).

Many town centre businesses in Burnham said this week they are disappointed at the news, particularly during the current financial climate.

Magpie Gifts' Rob Johnson told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "We've seen tough trading conditions so far and have started a 20 per cent discount sale which will be in place right up to Christmas. We would urge shoppers to support local businesses and come into town to do their Christmas shopping."

And Geoff Shickle, the owner of two shoe shops on the High Street, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "JPS has seen trade well below normal for the time of year, but Shickle Shoes has been busy. The parking decision is a disappointment and we hope support from local people in the run-up to Christmas will not be affected."

For a guide to Burnham's best shops, click here to visit the town's online shopping guide.