Yellow peril affects Lakeside chip shop

Mr Thomas's owner Simon Pilkington and manager Donna Hale point at the problem yellow lines

Mr Thomas's chip shop and café at Lake Bank, Hollingworth Lake has seen its custom and takings decimated since double yellow lines were introduced outside the premises in December 2011.

Owner Simon Pilkington has already had to lay off two members of staff and is fearful that if the double yellow lines stay he will soon be out of business. He said: "Custom has nose dived since the double yellow lines were introduced. Before people could park up and pop in for fish and chips, now they can't we lose their custom. The effect on my business and others nearby hasn't been thought through.

"I can't even park round the back of the premises, I brought cash in one day recently and two minutes later when I got back to my car there was already a ticket on it. Same thing happened to a delivery driver bringing supplies, he was ticketed and when he asked how he was supposed to unload he was told he would have to park further down the road - 1/4 of a mile away!"

David Nicholson, Highways & Engineering Service Director for Rochdale Borough Council's Impact Partnership, said: "The parking restrictions were introduced as a result of concerns raised by local residents. Those affected by the scheme had an opportunity to object in accordance with the normal statutory processes.

"Lake Bank is a strategic route providing access to other amenities and local businesses. Parked cars on this narrow section of the highway create an obstruction and safety hazard for other road users.

"Customers for local businesses can use Hollingworth Lake Car Park across the road which is free from 6pm every night of the week."

Mr Pilkington added: "Daytime during the summer months is the make or break of this business and if people can't park for a short time to come in for fish and chips during the day then we may have to close shop.

Mr Pilkington understands the problems that can be caused by inconsiderate parking but feels the double yellow lines need to go, he suggests a compromise would be single yellow lines with a half hour time limit on parking - enough time to either call in for a take away or to eat in the cafe.

MP Simon Danczuk called to see the problems for himself when he visited Mr Thomas's on Thursday, he promised Mr Pilkington that he would make representations to the Council to see what could be done to help save jobs and the business.

Lakeside councillors, Ann Stott, Stephanie Mills and Peter Evans say they are already aware of the problem and have met with council officers to redress the Council’s current parking policy. They are pressing the Council to introduce short-term parking to permit passing trade for the benefit of local businesses.

Councillor Stott said: "It is hoped to achieve a situation and position which is amenable to all parties, including residents and local trades people, as soon as practicable."