Ilkley MP Robbie Moore has criticised parking charges and ongoing roadworks on the A65, saying they are putting additional pressure on local businesses.
His comments follow a roundtable meeting with Ilkley businesses at the Clarke Foley Community Hub, organised in conjunction with Ilkley BID ahead of the forthcoming Budget.
Mr Moore said businesses had raised concerns about rising employment costs alongside local issues affecting trade.
He said:
“Our local hospitality and high street businesses are taking a battering as a result of this Labour government’s choices.
“And in Ilkley, they are being further negatively impacted by the ongoing parking charges, and constant roadworks on the A65, all signed off by Bradford Council.”
Mr Moore claimed increases in parking charges and the extension of on-street charges were leading to fewer customers visiting businesses.
He also criticised increases in employers’ National Insurance and the minimum wage, alongside reductions in business rates relief, saying these were having a significant impact on the hospitality sector.
He said uncertainty over potential further tax rises was adding to businesses’ concerns ahead of the Budget.
Mr Moore said:
“We are lucky to have so many amazing pubs, cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, eating places and of course local shops across our area which play a massive role in bringing people together and supporting the local economy – but they are saying, enough is enough.”
The MP thanked Sarah Brookfield-Almond from Ilkley BID for helping organise the meeting and pledged to raise the concerns in Westminster.
He added:
“We need a complete change in direction ahead of the next Budget to stop even more businesses being pushed to the brink.
“I will be holding further discussions with businesses in the run up to the Budget.”
He also urged residents to continue supporting independent businesses by shopping locally.
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