Commuters and workers need to start using West Malling’s parking spaces sensibly or risk being charged.
That is the message from Jane Marshall, chairman of the village’s Chamber of Commerce, who is part of a team trying to fix the problem caused by the area’s lack of short- term parking.
Ms Marshall told the Kent Messenger: “We need to get commuters naturally thinking it’s silly to park in spaces, especially if it’s possible to walk.
“If they don’t start doing this we will need to consider looking into bringing in charges but if people are sensible this will not happen.
“The overall problem is we have a lack of short-term parking spaces for visitors and policies brought in need to be balanced, they need to suit everyone. Commuters are one part of a problem, it’s not fair to blame them for everything.”
The council’s joint transport board is now considering introducing parking permits on Offham Road and Norman Road to combat obstructive parking.
Businesses will be asked to remind their staff not to use short-stay car parks which are intended for visitors.
People coming into town can do their bit by parking at the Ryarsh Lane car park, a permit-only car park during the week which is open to the public on Saturdays.
But not everyone feels parking is a particular problem.
Tim Baldock, owner of Baldock’s Ski Shop on the High Street, said: “I think the problem is being blown out of proportion, the problems we have are the same as any other town.
“It’s one of the best places to visit and we have lots of great shops. West Malling has superb parking facilities.”