I HAVE been contacted by residents who are concerned that parking charges are to be introduced into the former Summerfield site car park in Blackwood.

I like residents fear the loss of free parking, and the potential negative effect it could have on our town.

Back in January, I chaired a task and finish group looking at car parks, and charges across the county borough. The work revealed the imbalance and unfairness of the current situation.

Council records show that many towns across Caerphilly have dozens of free car parking spaces, yet Blackwood has a meagre 11 free spaces.

With the loss of the Summerfield site it is vital that the council act by introducing a number of free spaces into Blackwood, this will ensure that Blackwood town centre remains an attractive place to shop.

I will do all I can to put pressure on the Council to rectify this situation. 

Cllr Nigel Dix 
Montclaire Avenue
Blackwood