BMF: Westminster bike parking charges - it's 'no' or ever

Thursday, 25 June 2009 12:00 AM

The British Motorcyclists Federation is calling on its 90,000 members to oppose the imposition of motorcycle parking charges in Westminster by handing in their written objections to Westminster City Hall on Wednesday 1st July, the eve of the final day for objections.

Supporting the 'No To Bike Parking Fees' (NTBPF) campaign, the BMF is asking all motorcyclists to meet in Westminster's Golden Square, W1, between 5.45pm and 6.30pm and join a demonstration ride to Westminster City Hall where organisers will hand in participants' objections to the charging regime.

The BMF say that the parking charges introduced for PTWs (Powered Two Wheelers) by Westminster City Council run contrary to the Government's aim to 'mainstream' motorcycling and could, if implemented, be adopted by other towns and cities. "This is a 'no or ever' situation" said BMF spokesman Jeff Stone. "Say 'no' now or regret it forever as charges are slowly introduced across the UK."

In backing the 'No To Bike Parking Fees' (NTBPF) demonstration (notobikeparkingfees.com), the BMF point out that motorcycles and scooters provide the ideal solution for commuters seeking a genuine door-to-door solution and especially so for low paid key workers. Where public transport does not serve their needs and cycling is not a practical option, PTWs provide the only realistic alternative for those seeking personal mobility say the BMF.

While Westminster have recently reduced the daily experimental charge from £1.50 to £1.00 a day, this still goes against the accepted norm that PTWs are part of the solution, not the problem, in easing traffic congestion and should be encouraged, not discouraged.

Motorcyclists unable to attend can still play a part by registering their objection on http://www.notobikeparkingfees.com/object-online/

Where and when: Weds, 1st July. Meet GOLDEN SQUARE, W1 (ROUTE MAP) between 5.45pm and 6.20pm, leaving at 6:30pm for the ride to Westminster City Hall to arrive at 7pm.

Note:

As well as being economical, PTWs with their efficient use of space do not cause congestion, are able to filter through congestion where it does take place and then occupy less space for parking. They are environmentally friendly, comply with current European emission limits and, coupled with their ability to avoid dense traffic, pollute far less than slow moving four-wheeled traffic.

Ends

Issued by Jeff Stone: t: 0121 709 1040 m: 07802 763094 e: jeff.stone@bmf.co.uk

Details on this and other BMF activities can also be found on our web site: www.bmf.co.uk

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