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• Councillors Re-Think Parking Charges

Introduction

(Article date: May 19, 2010) After receiving two petitions and individual objections totalling almost 2,000 signatures, East Herts Council has applied the brakes on plans to introduce Sunday and bank holiday charges in car parks in Bishop's Stortford and Hertford.

Grappling with the tough financial climate created by the recession and major slashes from central government funding, the council had proposed a nominal all day Sunday and bank holiday charge of 50p as one way of meeting the budget gap.

However, after the proposals for the charge were advertised, concerned businesses and residents - including church-goers - began to raise their concerns. The original deadline for objections was extended by one month, so that as many people as possible could make their views heard.

Cllr Mike Carver, Executive member for planning policy and transport, said: "Although making savings in these difficult financial times is a priority for the council, it must be with the cooperation of our residents.

"We have considered all the objections very carefully and have taken the decision that we want to help promote our towns to both shoppers and visitors - particularly as local businesses are working hard to come out of recession. So now was not the right time to introduce these charges.

"This is a good example of how we do listen to what residents have told us and act accordingly."

Traders in Ware have also been listened to: Ware Priory car park is also to change from long-stay only to a short and long-stay car park after members of the business community asked for the car park to be more flexible for visitors, shoppers and workers.

Councillors at last night's Executive (Tuesday) also approved plans to introduce Saturday pay and display machines in the Hartham Lane and Common car parks in Hertford. The council had received just five objections.

East Herts Council will now be working with Herts County Council to develop a Transport and Parking Strategy to improve various aspects of travel for the district – including congestion and road safety, not just parking. Any new parking charges will be revisited as part of the strategy report in spring 2011, and will offer plenty of public consultation opportunities.

Further questions about Councillors Re-Think Parking Charges

e: enquiries@eastherts.gov.uk

t: 01279 655261