Snow and ice-choked car parks could affect the profits of Perth retailers during the critical post-Christmas sales period, it has been claimed.
While many town centre car parks have been treated, others are still covered by snow, dirty slush and hard-packed ice.
One local businessman said the situation threatened to spoil what is traditionally a bumper time for retailers.
“Trying to get people to spend cash has been pretty tough this year so most businesses have been looking forward to the sales,” he said. “It is traditionally a time when shoppers splash out and can provide a vital boost to profits.
“As such, anything that deters customers from venturing on to the High Street is very worrying. While many car parks are pretty clear, a significant number are still ankle deep in snow and slush.
“Parking in Perth is a key issue at the best of times and I worry that the snow and ice could put people off visiting the city centre.”
Just last week one of Tayside’s leading independent retailers billed Perth and Kinross Council after clearing the entire street outside her premises.
Throughout the recent cold snap, representatives of Perth and Kinross Council have repeatedly explained that roads, pavements and car parks are treated in accordance with a priority system.
“This winter has been extreme in terms of the amount of snow that has fallen and the enduring low temperatures,” said a spokesman. “We understand people’s frustration with the impact of such severe weather.
“We are doing all that we can as quickly as we can and we would like to thank residents who have supported our efforts and understood the huge challenges we are facing.”