Petitions

Matt Vickers Excerpts

Thursday 30th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Luke Akehurst (North Durham) (Lab)]

I wish to present a petition relating to the potential closure of the post office in Chester-le-Street, which has been at the heart of the community in North Durham since 1936.

The petition states:

The petition of residents of the constituency of North Durham,

Declares that Chester-le-Street Post Office, which provides vital services to local residents is at risk of closure; and notes that 658 people have signed a similar online petition on this matter.

The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to encourage the Post Office to ensure that Chester-le-Street Post Office can remain open.

And the petitioners remain, etc.

[P003039]

[Matt Vickers (Stockton West) (Con)]

I rise to present a petition on behalf of the people of Stockton West. Yarm has the most beautiful high street in the country, with an amazing offer of retail and hospitality businesses. However, it faces a huge threat, as the Labour council is set to axe one-hour free parking, which poses a real risk to the high street, its businesses and jobs.

Supported by local councillors Andrew Sherris, John Coulson and Dan Fagan, more than 2,500 people have signed a similar petition online to protect Yarm’s one-hour free parking. I welcome the opportunity to present the petition today.

Following is the full text of the petition:

[The petition of the residents of the constituency of Stockton West,

Declares that Stockton Council must keep Yarm’s free 1-hour parking; further declares that free parking is crucial for supporting local businesses, encouraging footfall, and helping Yarm’s economy thrive; and further notes that the Council’s changes to eliminate 1-hour free parking risks harming small businesses and deterring shoppers.

The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to take immediate action to ensure that the high street in Yarm is supported with free 1-hour parking.

And the petitioners remain, etc.]

[P003040]