A hairdressing salon boss fears her long-established business will go bust if proposed parking restrictions are imposed on dozens of roads.

Franki Dallas, who runs Ivory Hair Studio in Strood, is among a group of traders who are concerned if the council introduces residents’ permits during the day it would impact hugely on companies like her own.

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The 30-year-old said the spaces in Weston Road were currently used by customers and any changes would “crucify” her business.

Medway Council has started a consultation process offering three options, with thousands of people affected in the Strood North area.

One suggestion is to extend a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) during the day, either between 9am and 10am or all day from 8am to 6pm.

This would mean commuters would not be able able to park all day, freeing up spaces for residents. Businesses in the area would continue to be able to allow free parking for customers, except between restricted times.

Another idea is to operate restricted parking overnight, either between 6pm and 8am or 9pm to 8am. This would enable residents with valid permits to find it easier to park near their homes.

Finally, no changes to the existing zone, but the suggested extension would not be implemented.

Miss Dallas, who has worked at Ivory for 14 years, said her staff, who are self-employed, would certainly lose many of their clients.

She said: “They will find themselves without an income and therefore having to find other jobs. Many of our customers are elderly and have to park nearby.

"They won’t want to park near the town centre and then walk up a steep hill.

“Also, a couple of hours is not a long enough stay for some appointments. A wash, cut colour and blow dry can take up to three-and-a-half hours.

“We have a loyal customer base which we have built up over the years. This seems to fly in the face of the council trying to encourage small businesses in Medway.”

The council first put out the CPZ for consultation in 2017. Although there was a level of support for the introduction of parking controls, it was decided to postpone any works until the town centre improvements had been completed.

Medway Council said due to the consultation, which ends on Tuesday, November 5, it could not comment.

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