TRAFFIC wardens are being asked to show more leniency on people popping to the shops.
Traders in Monpellier, which has been named one of the 20 coolest places to live in the country, are campaigning for drivers to get 30 minutes free parking.
The appeal comes as a private parking company takes over the patrolling of Cheltenham's on-street parking from April 1.
Cheltenham Borough Council handed over on-street parking enforcement to Gloucestershire County Council, who have employed Apcoa Parking to do the work.
Margaret Cavanagh, chairman of the Montpellier Association, was concerned there would no longer be flexibility for drivers when they park up.
She said: "Montpellier is doing really well, but one of our biggest problems is parking. For the elderly wanting to get a prescription or mums with babies just wanting to pop into the Co-op, it takes longer for them to pay the 20p for 15 minutes parking than it does to do their shopping.
"There needs to be more leeway. We would love to see the first 30 minutes of parking free or no charge after 3pm."
"We don't want to make it harder for people to park here, but the last thing we want to do is have people penalised. Honest, law-abiding people have been ticketed in the past and that can put them off shopping here."
The traders' plea comes as Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles said wardens should stop giving motorists popping into shops parking tickets to boost the economy.
He said he wanted an end to the "over-zealous culture of parking enforcement" and called on "officious" wardens to be more lenient.
It is understood ministers are considering rules which would prevent wardens issuing penalties to people who briefly stop to visit shops.
A spokesman for Gloucestershire County Council said: "We will be asking Apcoa to enforce on-street parking to the same standards as the districts have been asked to in the past.
"Free parking for a limited duration was considered by council officers and committee members before car parking charges were introduced in the area early last year and this option was ruled out. Instead the committee decided to introduce more flexible charging in 15 minute bands – something that is particular to Montpellier specifically to allow for short stays."
