Breckland Council insists it is 'not at war' with Dereham

Breckland Council has defended its decision not to send a representative to discuss the proposals at a meeting of Dereham Town Council last week.

The authority was branded a "disgrace" by town councillors for failing to attend and engage in debate, and was accused of failing to take an interest in the concerns of local people.

However, Paul Hewett, a member of Breckland Council, has insisted the two councils are "not at war" and hopes for a collaborative approach to the plans.

Breckland councillor Paul Hewett (Image: Breckland Council)

He said: "We explained over a week in advance of the meeting that we would be unable to attend this meeting but assured the town council that we would be engaging with them soon on this important issue.  

"The issue at the heart of this is Breckland’s decision to implement a sustainable funding model for our town centre car parks. I have been clear from the outset that this has been an incredibly difficult choice for us. 

"I have also been clear in my appeal to everyone involved, be they our colleagues in town and parish councils or those influential voices out there in the community, that we owe it to everyone who we work for and represent to have a mature, constructive conversation.

"We will engage with all of our town councils in a structured, meaningful way in the coming months."

READ MORE: Parish council at loggerheads with Broads Authority over trees near landmark bridge

The Cherry Tree car park in Dereham (Image: Bill Smith)

The council has strongly defended its plans to introduce car parking charges in Dereham, Swaffham, Thetford, Watton and Attleborough, as being necessary due to budget pressures.

However, many local people are resisting the proposals, with several thousand signing a petition against the implementation of charges and others taking to social media to voice their concerns.