Langley community and local businesses have banded together in a bid to reboot their local economy with a campaign on Change.org.

This campaign calls for 30 minutes of free parking to encourage more trade in the area, with a petition primary led and set up by Amandeep Singh.

Explaining the rationale behind the request, Singh stated: "Limited parking time, ironically, is limiting the potential growth of our local businesses and subsequently, the local economy as a whole.

"These businesses depend on the frequent visits of patrons for survival."

Underlining the importance of accessibility for customers, he continued: "Without a convenient parking solution, customers may be disincentivised to shop here, ultimately impacting the livelihood of the 40 families tied to these businesses.

"Our proposal is simple and efficient - provide 30 minutes of free parking for customers."

Singh and the Langley community are emboldened by the success of similar schemes.

He noted "Several cities across the UK, including Edinburgh and Nottingham, have successfully implemented 'grace periods' in parking, which have proved beneficial for local businesses.

"Let us apply this successful model to our own community to stimulate our economy and support the hard-working individuals at the parade."

Evidence of this demand is evident in the fact that the petition has already gained 239 signatures, with the community hoping to seal at least 500.

One supporter, Perminder Sheimar, serves as a case in point for this cause.

Reflecting on how the parking issue has personally affected him, he said: "That’s the way it used to be.

"It’s better for local stores to generate more income.

"I don’t go to Langley anymore purely because of this reason."

Singh's campaign highlights a major challenge for local businesses.

At a time when support for small retailers is crucial, successful community petitions can make a real difference, providing a powerful message to the council that the local people value their businesses and want to see them thrive.

This petition, while looking to resolve immediate issues, also nods to the broader importance of reinforcing the survival of local businesses, deeply interwoven in the local economy, and supporting those firms that form the backbone of Langley's business community.

For those at the heart of the Langley parade - the businesses and the families that depend on them – the outcome of this campaign could prove critical.