Most older riders today would remember that free footpath parking for motorbikes in Victoria was fought hard for and won in the past by the MRA. It is still not a reality in other states. But it can be revoked at any time if a politician gets a bee in their bonnet about it as the British have found in the following article. Only last year we had another run in with a City councilor tired of tripping over inconsiderately parked Scooters in front of his office. Support the MRA to continue Free Parking!
Free Motorbike Parking Scrapped by Westminster
Leading courier insurance specialists Staveley Head are warning their clients to be wary following the decision of Westminster County Council to scrap free motorbike parking in the borough from the end of January.
This controversial move will have a huge impact on couriers operating in the area, most of whom have to make many short stops throughout the day and are likely to fall foul of the new rules. Since August, motorcyclists have been forced to use bike parking bays at a charge of £1 a day.
This decision has now been made permanent under a new bylaw and has been opposed by several groups. Most notably, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) are urging riders to donate to a 'legal fighting fund' in order to challenge the decision. The fund has already raised around £30,000, however the group has stated that more is needed in order to save free bike parking nationally. A spokesperson for the group commented:
"Westminster City Council's decision to make permanent their controversial scheme for motorcycle parking charges could have national implications and therefore makes it more important than ever that motorcyclists fight this retrograde move. Currently standing at some £30,000, the fund needs at least another £20,000 to meet the expected minimum legal costs of £50,000."
Flintshire based Staveley Head are in full support of this action, with a spokesperson commenting:
"We fully oppose the Government's move to abolish free motorcycle parking. This will have a massive effect on many of our courier clients who have for so long relied on the ability to park for a short period of time outside business premises."
"We would encourage all of our customers to fully support the initiatives of the BMF and other groups who are campaigning against the move."
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