Parking charges at Cheshire East Council run car parks came into force this week and residents in Alsager have given a luke warm response to the move.

Like Sandbach, many had voted with their feet and stayed away from car parks like Fairview in the centre which is normally full but today (Tuesday) was half empty.

And Alsager councillor, Rod Fletcher, has pointed out that the signage is still confusing and is urging residents to remember the two hour maximum car parking bays are the same as before.

Cllir Rod Fletcher says the signage in Fairview car park is

One man, in his late 70s, said he had lived in the town for 50 years it was the first time ever that he had had to pay to park.

The motorist, who didn't want to be named said: "I'm not very happy about this but what can we do?"

Parking in Fairview car park near Asda is free after 3 pm Monday - Saturday and also all day Sunday.

Another motorist from Alsager who was paying to park at Fairview this morning (Tuesday) said: " It does seem unfair but what can we do? I'm annoyed because I have seen a lot of waste at Cheshire East.

"Also one of the pay machines isn't working."

Her comments were echoed by Martin Bancroft also from Alsager who wondered whether the council will recoup the money they have spent setting the pay and display up.

But one motorist visiting Alsager from Crewe who didn't want to be named said paying to park wasn't an issue.

"We have to pay everywhere else so why not here in Alsager. We're used to paying to park," they said.

Cllr Rod Fletcher said: "Charges only operate 9 am until 3 pm on Fairview car park during term time and the two hour maximum car parking bays are the same as before on the Asda side of where it now says have you paid and displayed."

By luck, the sign at the entrance to Fairview car park saying 'free car park', which hasn't been taken down, is faded by dirt debris (as you can see above) and temporary signage has been put in place saying parking is free after 3 pm Monday - Saturday and all day Sunday.

What's your experiences o the parking charges so far? Share your comments below this story or email [email protected]

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