Come on, Malcolm Barrett – let our students park on Dovefields Retail Park.

I know exactly where they all park – an area formerly used by skateboarders and the local boy racers. That end of the car park isn't used by the general public and the main car park always has plenty of spaces. I could understand if restrictions were in place maybe at Christmas if it impacts on trade, but I can't see what harm it is doing the rest of the time. I personally have never had a problem parking and most of the time it's directly outside the shop I am visiting. They wouldn't even be there at peak trading time (weekends and bank holidays).

Don't forget, all of the students concerned are sixth formers dedicated to furthering their education which impacts on us all. They are the future of this town and should be encouraged to stay on in further education, not chased away. I have far more issues with the minority of teenagers who disrespect our area, cause trouble and race around our roads at all times of the day and night. I certainly wouldn't be in favour of more parked cars on the side streets close to the school as this impacts on the local residents and has safety implications.

Can we not support our extremely good and only high school please? It seems a bit harsh to threaten clamping, that solves nothing apart from getting everyone's back up (as is apparent from reports of the number of shoppers who have been clamped in other car parks and are refusing to come to the town again).

I am sure with some communication on both sides that this can be resolved. Remember – if the high school wasn't there, then exactly how would a lot of the town centre traders who are struggling to make any money in these difficult times survive? Give them a break.

Sue Burge

Uttoxeter