By Raymond Hall

Last updated 11:39, Monday, 02 June 2008

The visual impact of tree-hugging saucer shaped seats has brought controversy back to Cockermouth.

Who will swim against the tide of “oh no’s”.

They’re neat, innovative and colourful but what about the sap and bird droppings?

Perhaps we should live a little and be patient – wait until the tree lights are switched on.

It could be our chance to get into the movie business.

Are they out of place with our “Gem” town?

Believe me, we lost that image four years ago when we invited in an army of self-funded ticket-hungry street wardens.Our friendly “only doing my job” wardens are close to twinning our notoriety to that of Penrith.After three years of unfriendly treatment of tourists, Penrith is recognised no longer as “a nice place to stop” off the motorway.I’m convinced Eden and Allerdale traffic officers meet secretly every week for coffee and a laugh, to see who is ahead with “tickets from ignorant tourists who don’t know what a disc zone is”.

Cockermouth Partnership, the visionaries we all love to hate, has been run-over, shot at, and pilloried so many times since October it’s rumoured they hold hands and sing “you’ll never walk alone” at their strategy meetings.

Give them a break! Eleven trees are still standing, the use of pavement and road space has been skilfully and cleverly done, traffic is slowing respectfully in both directions, cars park neatly side by side and the Georgian Fair was a great success.

Some credit is due here, the ambience of our Market Place is greatly improved from what it was.

Allerdale Council failed to acknowledge the serious losses suffered by traders during the road closure.

They did nothing while Cockermouth Partnership took the flak.

All that was needed was a rates holiday.

Businesses are still waiting, without a penny compensation.

The Market Place success depends on connection with the main street.

Visitors will not cross the bridge if they’re worried about a parking fine.

The way we control parking should be questioned and challenged.

Why can’t we break out of the mould and restore a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere with two hour free parking in the town centre and a single traffic warden to weed out rogue offenders?

Plastic coloured seats are a distraction from these unresolved issues. Compensate our trades and let’s get our act together to welcome and relax our visitors.