KATHERINE Bird takes a very narrow view of proposals for free – or, perhaps, much reduced charges – for parking (letters 31 October).

Surely, the idea is that free parking will make Andover more attractive as a shopping centre, bringing in more customers, who will spend more than the current clientele.

In turn, this should make Andover more attractive to retailers, who are then more likely to invest in the town. There is real potential for a virtuous circle.

Everyone who uses the town centre will benefit from the greater variety this should bring, including the disadvantaged groups Ms Bird identifies.

Indeed, these disadvantaged groups may be the greatest winners as, unlike motorists, they don’t have the easy option of going elsewhere.

While the validity of this proposition may be debateable (i.e. is Andover town centre beyond rescue?) it is worth a try.

Let’s be honest, there are not too many other ideas out there.

Kieran O’Kelly Bishops Way