Wick businessman criticises new double yellow lines after closing shop
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AN ironmonger's shop in the centre of Wick closed this week after double yellow lines were put in place in Bridge Street and neighbouring parts of the town.
Kevin and Dawn Milkins, who have run Birons for eight-and-a-half years, say the measure will result in less trade as fewer customers will be able to stop at the premises.
But they gave an indication that they may have a rethink. "My wife, myself, my business partner and staff will consider our position this weekend," Mr Milkins said.
He explained that the installation of the double yellow lines was the main reason behind the decision to close the shop.
"We are convinced that the only reason they went for double yellow lines is to force people off the street into the car parks, then phase two will be pay and display," he said.
"It is well documented that this has been the ruination of many small towns with the latest being in Angus on the east coast."
Mr Milkins believes single or double yellow lines will only work if they are policed by a warden on a regular basis.
We are convinced that the only reason they went for double yellow lines is to force people off the street into the car parks, then phase two will be pay and display.
Asked why other neighbouring businesses seem to be prepared to carry on, the businessman replied: "We have a great working relationship with our fellow traders and doubtless we don’t all have the same opinion, but I can only speak for myself."
Mr Milkins says the double yellow lines will ease congestion in the town centre but claims they will also increase the speed of traffic.
"This comes at a time when they are putting up 20 miles per hour signs with no-one to enforce it. A warden to police the single yellow will also ease the flow of traffic," he said.
Mr Milkins pointed out that Birons – Bridgnorth Ironmongers Ltd – owns the Wick building and has two full-time and two-part time staff.
"We had, until Tuesday, exciting plans to purchase the shop next door and expand our business and also purchase another long-term empty building in the town centre with a view to turning it into our home and moving back to Wick," he said. "These plans seem less certain now.
"We have loved having the shop, and find the people of Wick and Caithness to have been warm, friendly and loyal customers over the years and this keeps you going."
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