VIDEO AND AUDIO: Hundreds of dog walkers and supporters of the protest against the Isle of Wight Council’s proposed parking changes came out in force this morning (Sunday), as Park the Dog is hailed a great success.
Organised by Kate Barton as a get together of like-minded dog owners, the social media buzz soon developed with great support from all. The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner and Councillors Wayne Whittle, Roger Whitby-Smith and Phil Jordan turned out for the morning stroll between Appley Tower and Puckpool, as well as hundreds of local residents all keen to show they do not want charges implemented at Appley and Puckpool parks.
Kate Barton speaks to Island Echo
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The walk was set up after fears grew within the community that dog walkers would have to pay to walk their dog at the popular seaside location, should the Isle of Wight Council revoke the free parking at Appley, as previously reported by Island Echo.
Today’s turnout has reinforced the fact that Islanders do not want to pay to park at either location and has gone a long way to support the overall protest against the proposed parking changes across the Island.
One supporter, who did not wish to be named, expressed their concerns to Island Echo this morning. They said:
“The government are pushing for children to have more exercise, not sit at home on computers and watching television.“So many families don’t have gardens in the area and I know so many parents who come down to the beach, to come down and play, run around and socialise and let the children use their imagination. Now, parents are not going to be able to afford to park and enjoy the area. It’s totally against the governments plan”.
