KEEP COPPICE FREE

***CHARGING PLANS FOR COPPICE ABANDONED***

***BELPER INDEPENDENTS WIN MOTION TO KEEP COPPICE FREE ***

Following years of battling to keep Coppice Car park free for the benefit of residents and our town centre economy, we are delighted to report that that last nights motion, 10th December 2024, from Belper Independents to rule out charging for the remaining years of the council was successful. A vote were also held that ruled out spending up to £4000 introducing a Car Park Order, an idea also rejected overwhelmingly by the timewasting ‘consultation’ that the council held.

The only dissenting voice was Councillor Tracey Hill, who persisted in vehement opposition to dropping charging plans, claiming that free car parks cause climate change.

This echoes fellow Amber Valley Cabinet member Emma Monkman, who did not vote on the issue due to her role at the borough, who previously wrote to town councillors in 2020 saying: “A Climate Emergency declaration should not be something that is made lightly. It involves making difficult decisions and being bold. If not we will lose all credibility and as an Environmentalist I simply won’t have that. Free parking is a complete no-no when it comes to the Climate. It is, arguably, one of the worst crimes against climate that a town can commit. We have to discuss it or we are not upholding our Climate Emergency declaration. My suggestion is this. We ready the carpark for charging.”

No doubt people will remember the stance from these two councillors when they next ask for your vote.

THIS IS A VICTORY FOR THE TOWN AND IS YOUR VICTORY.

Thanks to every single one of you who signed and shared the petition and put up posters. For all you who rejected the ridiculous plans in the consultation – Thank you.

BUT BEWARE: The commitment NOT to charge is only for this councils term. In two years time a new council will be elected – make sure the candidate you vote for then doesn’t share the views of Councillors Hill and Monkman.

Thanks you for your support – together for a Better Belper

Cllr Ben Bellamy