Lib Dems join businesses to protest Lymington Parking Meters

Hundreds of residents and business owners gathered on Lymington High Street on Monday morning to protest the impact of parking meters in Lymington High Street. The demonstration, organised by local shopkeeper Gary Saunders, saw strong support from the Liberal Democrats, who have been campaigning against the meters since the start.

Leading the march down the High Street was Cllr Colm McCarthy, Mayor of Lymington and Pennington, who said:
“These parking meters threaten the very character of our High Street. Local businesses rely on easy access for customers, and we must do everything we can to protect them. Today’s turnout shows how deeply this community cares about keeping our town centre vibrant and welcoming.”

The Lib Dems have been at the forefront of this fight from the beginning. Cllr Hannah Phillips (Buckland) secured the backing of Lymington and Pennington Town Council through a successful motion, and Cllr Jack Davies (Pennington - and Lib Dem candidate for Lymington and Boldre) followed this by winning support from New Forest District Council.

Speaking at the protest, Cllr Jack Davies said:
“This campaign has brought together residents, traders, and councillors united by a shared determination to defend our High Street. The message is loud and clear – these meters are not wanted, and they are not needed. Now Hampshire County Council must finally listen.”

Jack has also used a Freedom of Information request to reveal that the meters raised just £64,500 in the last financial year – an amount that is dwarfed by the damage being caused to local shops.

The final decision now lies with Hampshire County Council’s Universal Services Committee, which will meet on 20th October to determine the future of the parking meters.

The New Forest Liberal Democrats will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with local residents and businesses until the meters are scrapped.