R Goodchild, Brunswick Heads
How can Council be trusted when, every time paid parking (PP) in Brunswick Heads is discussed, we are faced with a different set of guidelines? We started with full-time metered parking, and when that was proven to be unnecessary it became periodic PP in December, January and Easter. Now it seems to be weekends and public holidays. Imagine the confusion and signage we will have to contend with, apart from the unattractive meters. All in all it’s just a pretext to getting those meters in, so that eventually they will be in use all year round or spread out to a larger area, as this is the only way that they will be financially viable.
The TPS report carried out two years ago reported that parking in Mullumbimby is a far bigger problem (than in Bruns) and suggested that a review of parking meters in Bruns be put on hold for five years. The Ethos Urban report acknowledged the harm that meters could do to local jobs. These are facts that Council have chosen to totally ignore.
And if, by some miracle, the world returns to normal and we get visitors back at a level where our businesses can regain much needed income, is Council prepared to risk these livelihoods just because they claim they do not believe meters will deter visitors? There are many businesses in Byron Bay who know otherwise.
This is not a Council who cares about our village atmosphere, or for the opinion of thousands who have signed petitions against paid parking in Bruns. This is purely a money grab.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
