Concerns have been raised by Joe Robertson MP about proposals to introduce parking charges in parts of Ryde, including Union Street.
The Isle of Wight Council is due to vote on the plans, which would see charges introduced in areas that are currently free to park. It has been argued that the absence of parking fees has helped support local independent retailers and maintain footfall in the town centre.
There are also calls for existing free parking arrangements to remain in place in Shanklin and other parts of the Island.
Mr Robertson said, "Union Street in Ryde is one of the most vibrant shopping streets I think on the whole island, with loads and loads of independent shops all the way up and down. And part of the reason is because it’s free parking. There've never been parking charges here, so people can nip in to whichever of shopping and go home again... I’m dead against it. I’ve been campaigning against it."
