News / Transport
RPZ protesters face police as costs change
Protesters in Montpelier stood firm on Thursday morning as police, tow trucks and line-painters moved in to end a residents’ parking barricade in Montpelier.
Police and council contractors turned back after one demonstrator parked her van in the middle of the street as the blockade continued.
The move came as the city council revised down its estimated cost of damage caused by vandalism to new parking meters and signs installed in the area.
is needed now More than ever
Council officials said eight, instead of 18, out of 20 meters had been damaged beyond repair at a total cost of £30,000, not £50,000.
Residents at the peaceful protest this morning said they would remain in place for as long as possible.
Police told protesters that one option would be to remove them and their vehicles from the street to allow contractors to complete the work.
Demonstrations in other parts of Montpelier have turned violent, with alleged assaults by contractors and protesters.
Mayor George Ferguson has condemned the violence and promised to complete the Montpelier residents’ parking zone to go live on July 6.