I HAVE followed with interest the debate over parking in the south of the town (Warrington Guardian, December 8).

On Monday I came to use the car park at The Forge in Stockton Heath.

The new system was in place so it would cost £1 to park for more than 15 minutes.

I was just picking up a ‘click and collect’ item from Marks and Spencer so decided I would just nip in there and be on my way.

All of this gave me pause for thought. A week ago, I may have used the allotted hour to access other things in the village.

Perhaps grab a pie from the village bakery, grabbed some sweets from the old sweet shop, bought a gift from Donna Marie or a bottle of wine for Christmas from Corks Out.

So instead, none of that happened, I nipped to Marks and drove off without spending any money with any local traders.

Some of the blame is on me and I accept that.

But some has to go on the council.

What will the long term effect be on the traders of Stockton Heath and Lymm?

The council needs to save money, I understand that.

But at what cost?

JAMES WILSON Orford