Labour go to war with local business

York’s Liberal Democrat group has expressed concern at what appears to be a breakdown in trust between the Labour-run council and local business leaders. 

At a meeting of the York Council's ruling Labour Party Executive, Andrew Lowson, Chair of the York BID (Business Improvement District) spoke out against Labour’s high-handed approach to engaging with the business community over increased parking charges and the possible introduction of a Tourism Tax.

At the meeting Mr Lowson said “The rising car parking charges on the first two hours is seen as very worrying. Because the steep rise, the Minster Badge discount doesn’t really have a huge effect and many regular users of York City Centre live in places that also are ineligible for that badge.

“On the Tourism Tax, the Hospitality Association of York which represents many of the larger hotels, they have expressed disappointment that they have not been consulted as a group. Especially because if the tax is ever forthcoming, they will be expected to administer the charge.

“So, this past week has demonstrated that I think improvements to partnership working need to be done. Talking partnerships is easy, true partnership working takes commitment and a willingness from all sides.” 

In response, York Council’s Economy boss, Councillor Pete Kilbane, launched an attack on York’s business community, accusing them of talking the city down, and not understanding how successfully Labour are running the Council. In his attack he admitted that relationships have broken down. 

Councillor Ashley Mason, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Economy said:

“It’s time for Labour to walk the walk on the Tourism Tax. They have been dangling it in front of residents this past year without putting in the work to consult with those that would have to implement it. It will be deeply concerning to residents to hear that the talks have run out of steam.

“We are also concerned about their proposals to increase car parking charges, especially their increased Friday rate that will discourage people from going back into the office as well as punishing those who work in the service sector. 

“What is most worrying is that there seems to have been a complete breakdown in the relationship between the Council’s Economy boss and the head of the business community in York. A lack of consultation is a theme for this Labour Council who act like they always know best.”