Once hailed as Britain's best high street, York's vibrant Bishopthorpe Road was feted for its buzzing shops, lively cafes and community spirit.
But traders now warn it risks becoming the latest casualty of Britain's high street crisis, with some fearing a slow 'death by a thousand cuts' as rising costs and soaring parking fees drive customers away.
Affectionately known as Bishy Road, the street had defied the malaise endured in towns across the country - with its traditional butchers, bakers, and greengrocers still to succumb to the scourge of vape shops and Turkish barbers.
That was until officials at Labour-run City of York Council last month sanctioned a sweeping rise in parking charges - with the cost of an hour's parking hiked 506 per cent from 80p to £4.85, and £5.30 on Fridays and Saturdays.
A two-hour stay now costs customers £9.70 - up from just £1.60, and rising to £10.60 on Fridays and Saturdays.
