A FRUSTRATED shopkeeper has launched a petition to introduce two hours of free parking in Rochford.

Kirsty Lovelock, owner of the Rockamilly retro fashion store in West Street, only opened her shop in May and has already noticed a trend of customers rushing away so they don’t go over their pre-paid parking ticket.

Mrs Lovelock set up the petition on the change.org website ten days ago and has already got more than 150 supporters for her suggestion of two hours of free parking in the Back Lane car park.

She said: “My business is very niche and has a limited market, so relies on custom coming from afar, but they are being put off by the extra charges the council levy on them.

“I understand the frustration of businesses and visitors alike when you have to pay even for the quickest visit.

“I think this is a reasonable request to help us small businesses increase visitors and sales alike, and for customers to be able to browse leisurely without worrying about the time.

“This will also encourage customers into the town as opposed to going to larger towns or shopping centres.”

Motorists have to pay to use the Back Lane car park from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, and 7am to 1pm on Saturdays, which is operated by the district council.

Members of Rochford District Council fought hard to preserve free Saturday afternoon parking in 2014, but did increase the cost for one hour by 25 per cent – from 80p to £1.

Councillor responsible for enterprise, Mike Steptoe said: “There is free parking in Rochford Square, and the council has worked hard over the years to develop sustainable, reasonable, safe and responsible parking for all. We have the advantage of living in an area of great heritage with the town’s historic layout and buildings, but that also means we have limited options regarding parking development and these varying demands need to be considered and accommodated carefully.

“We always consider parking options within this remit and car parking charges in the budget reviews, the next one of which will be later this year.”