Caroline Pidgeon, Leader of the Liberal Democrat London Assembly Group and Vice Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee, commenting on proposals by Transport for London to implement parking charges in places where short term free parking is currently allowed, said:
"This is a short sighted measure, where the harm will far outweigh any gains. These proposals will raise little revenue but badly hit small shops and traders which rely on passing trade.
"Too many of London's roads are already blighted by empty shops. I fear this proposal will be the death warrant for many more."