Traffic and parking seem to be my main pet hates . . . at the moment!

Parking fines are on the increase. If issued by the local authority, they can be considered another ‘stealth tax’.

It also frustrates me greatly when I see parking charges increasing in our local town car parks – the very towns that are struggling to fill commercial properties and shops.

Small businesses are fighting hard to maintain market share and attract customers.  Increasing parking costs deters a steady flow of customers with the potential to spend money, which, in turn, supports the local community.

If I was Prime Minister, I would insist that every councillor, member of parliament and assembly member undertake a recognised qualification in business studies, marketing and management.  Why on earth are we still voting for and electing candidates that have very little or no business or management acumen?

The majority of local government members and councillors that I have personally engaged with over the years demonstrate little understanding of grassroots business matters and what drives the local economy.  This is evident today, in the run-up to the local elections – and makes me question their reasons for taking on the job.

For money to be spent locally, we need thriving towns and communities. Otherwise, we will spend our hard-earned cash out of the area via the motorways – and I don’t fancy that . . . because I hate traffic.

Rant over.