Free parking to support our town centres, says Central Scotland MSP Meghan Gallacher
During the recent Scotland Loves Local Week, I had the opportunity to visit a number of outstanding local businesses on Falkirk High Street.
It was a pleasure to speak directly with business owners, hear about the issues they are facing and see first-hand the vital contribution they make to our local economy. Our independent businesses create jobs, provide valued services and help keep our town centre vibrant and welcoming.
There is much to celebrate about Falkirk's entrepreneurial spirit, but those conversations also highlighted the very real challenges facing many local traders. Rising operating costs, antisocial behaviour and ever-increasing competition from online retailers are placing enormous pressure on businesses.
Many owners told me they are doing everything they can to adapt, but they need practical support if they are to continue investing in our town centre.
If we want thriving town centres that attract investment, create employment and remain at the heart of our communities, we cannot simply hope these challenges will resolve themselves. We need policies that make it easier for people to visit our high streets, support local businesses and choose Falkirk town centre over retail parks or online shopping.
That is why I support introducing two hours of free parking in council car parks serving our town centres across Scotland. Residents have told me that parking charges discourage them from making shorter visits to shop, enjoy a coffee or meet friends.
Removing that barrier would make our town centres more accessible, encourage greater footfall and provide a meaningful boost to the independent retailers and businesses that form the backbone of Falkirk's economy.
This is not a silver bullet, and free parking alone will not solve every challenge facing our high streets. However, it is a practical measure that could make an immediate difference while we aim to regenerate our town centres and support local enterprise.
Falkirk has an opportunity to lead by adopting a policy that puts local businesses and local communities first. Supporting our high streets is about far more than protecting individual shops, it is about safeguarding jobs, encouraging investment, strengthening community life and ensuring our town centres remain places where people choose to spend their time and money.
As your MSP, I will continue to champion Falkirk's local businesses and press for practical policies that help them succeed. By backing our independent retailers and introducing measures like two hours of free parking, we can build stronger town centres together.