County council drops controversial plan. Business leaders jubilant.

Parking meters may not be installed in High Street, Honiton, after all.

Honiton Town Council understands Devon County Council plans to shelve the introduction of controversial on-street parking charges indefinitely.

Councillor Vernon Whitlock, the Mayor of Honiton, told the Midweek Herald: “The town council argued strongly against these charges, which we viewed as an additional charge on High Street businesses and shoppers in difficult economic times.”

Praising the county council for its decision, Councillor Whitlock added: “Honiton has one of the best High Streets in Devon and its individual, independent shops attract shoppers from a wide area, the county council has recognised the essential part the High Street plays in the local economy and has made the right decision.”

Business leaders led the campaign against meters.

Colin Wright, chairman of Honiton and district chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “I am extremely pleased to hear the good news.

“Parking meters would have had a detrimental impact on trade in the town and it is good that Devon County Council has listened to our concerns.”

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