Town centre cafes punished by extra fees

10.00.00pm GMT Wed 3rd Feb 2010

Councillor Amy Kitcher has handed in a petition to Merthyr Council against the introduction of fees payable by town centre cafes that want to put tables and chair outside for customers.

The annual fees, payable only by town centre cafes, have caused concern amongst town centre traders, who feel that the local council are intent on treating them like a 'cash cow'.

Amy Kitcher, who was asked to submit the petition by cafe owners, said "There is clearly a lot of concern about the introduction of these new fees as over 1,200 people signed the petition.

"We should be helping local businesses to survive the recession, not put an extra burden on them. It's just not fair. The council should forget about this latest money-making scheme."