A KILWINNING shop boss has warned he’s in danger of going out of business if town centre car park charges are introduced in North Ayrshire.

Free parking could end if budget proposals are approved in the region with one long-established store painting a stark picture for local businesses.

The move by Dino’s Flowers in Main Street comes after North Ayrshire Council included town centre parking charges in a budget consultation.

The same proposal was rejected by councillors more than 18 months ago. But now the council is facing a £16 million funding gap.

The public have been asked to reveal which cuts to the budget they would favour.

So far, a petition protesting the proposed parking charges has been signed by 230 people online and another 56 on paper.

A spokesman for Dino's Flowers said: “It’s even worse than it was in 2022 as businesses have closed since then. Times are harder. The cost of living crisis is way worse.

“There is an extremely high chance town centre parking would shut the doors of this business and we have been here for 50 years.

“It is hard enough without putting more pressure on us. We are trying to keep the doors open and the energy bills are really high.

"Why are the council looking for advice when elected people should decide these things? We are asking every councillor who will support shopkeepers and residents.

“We value the well-being of the elderly who enjoy coming up the street to see friends and it’s good for mental health.

“It’s not just people in cars we have to worry about but walkers as it keeps them fit and some don’t want to shop in supermarkets.

“But if we rely on just footfall we will close. I am surprised this is even on the table considering the bad press the council got last time.”

The petition against the move reads: “If implemented, these charges will put severe pressure on local businesses in Kilwinning, Irvine and Saltcoats main streets that are struggling to stay afloat amidst a significant decline in footfall.

“This policy not only potentially damages trade and tourism, but also brings about the unwanted closure to businesses in our town centres and the surrounding areas.

“Furthermore, this proposal threatens to infringe upon the rights of the residents of our main streets.

“It is unjust that only one car per household will receive a free permit, while each additional permit will cost an extortionate £100. 

“This policy will have severe repercussions for residents with more than one vehicle per household.”

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “For next year, we expect to have a budget gap of at least £16 million. This requires us to make significant savings. Unfortunately, that means there will be very difficult choices ahead.

“It’s important to stress that no decisions have yet been taken on any savings. We are now engaging with communities and would urge them to let us know their thoughts on the services we provide.

"Council officers are currently meeting with community groups and stakeholders to gather their views on how any changes might impact them.

“In addition, residents and groups are encouraged to take part in online surveys on a range of areas – including the potential introduction of car parking charges – which can be found at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/Budget2025 

“Paper copies of these surveys are available in local libraries and KA Leisure facilities.

"Alternatively, residents can call the council’s contact centre on 01294 310000 and the surveys can be filled in over the phone. The contact centre is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 4.45pm and Friday from 9am to 4.30pm.

“The feedback received will help inform councillors when they meet to set the budget in February 2025.”

You can sign the petition against parking charges here.