I am writing to you to express my surprise and disappointment that Allerdale Borough Council has chosen to uphold a parking ticket issued for being 11 minutes late while visiting Keswick recently.
My family and I love the Lake District and we were proud and pleased to visit again to support the local community and economy after the recent devastating floods.
I now find myself when asked by friends and colleagues how my weekend was, not telling people about the great places to eat, the amazing place we stayed, the glorious walks the children and grandparents enjoyed (despite the weather), the shops or the tourist attractions we visited, or the fact that the lakes are 'still open for business', but instead ranting about the ridiculous parking enforcement in Keswick, therefore unwillingly creating negative publicity.
During out 2hr (and 11 minutes!) visit to Keswick we spent approximately £200 on food, shopping and tourist attractions. Due to this parking fine I will not be visiting Keswick again, therefore the local economy will not receive this money again. It's simple economics.
I have now paid the £25 fine. The appeal was never about the financial penalty but more the principal and my outrage at such strict, disproportionate parking enforcement. I resent being treated by the council as a means to raise revenue, and would question if they are acting in the best interest of the area at this time.
My wholehearted best wishes for your area and community.
John Sproson
Eaglescliffe, near Middlesbrough
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