What an empty car park says about one of the UK's poorest areas

Residents of Queenborough on the Isle of Sheppey have been boycotting a car park that has recently become pay-to-use, imposed by Swale Borough Council to balance its finances. This decision has angered locals and businesses, who fear losing customers. The island, despite its tourism potential, faces significant financial issues, with high rates of insolvency and bankruptcy. Assistance services like Citizens Advice report an increase in requests for help with rising debts.