SHROPSHIRE Council is intent upon using Ludlow as a ‘cash cow’ and has no understanding of the needs of the traders in the town.

This is according to Tim Gill who used the annual Mayor making to launch a strong attack of the controlling Conservative group in County Hall.

Mr Gill who is starting his second year as Mayor also hit out at the process of providing Scrutiny to decisions made by Shropshire Council.

He said that no proper regard has been taken on the impact of proposed changes to parking on shops in Ludlow.

The Mayor said he found it odd that the controlling group that claims to be ‘from the party of business is taking action that has the potential to be so damaging.

“Shropshire Council is unaware of the needs of individual towns with its one size fits all approach,” said Mr Gill.

“They are using Ludlow as a cash cow.”

Ludlow Chamber of Trade and Commerce has made clear its concerns about a number of aspects of the proposed changes.

This includes the increase in charges but in particular the end of short term parking in the main town centre car park which it is feared will reduce the turnover of traffic visiting the town centre.

The reduction in the time allowed for people to pop and shop is according to traders a threat to trade.

Another concern is the likely change that would mean car parking charges will apply until 8pm instead of 6pm. It is feared this could be very damaging.

Businesses are worried about the impact that this will have on the ‘night time economy’ of the town including pubs, cafes and restaurants as well as venues like Ludlow Assembly Rooms.