A proposal, which could have seen car park charges introduced in East Riding towns that currently offering free parking, has been deferred by the council.
In a heated debate some councillors argued that such a move would cripple local businesses and disadvantage vulnerable residents.
The contentious recommendations stemmed from a car parking review panel tasked with examining parking provisions across the region. The panel put forward a range of recommendations, some of which received widespread support. These included measures to ban pavement parking, expand electric car charging infrastructure, and standardize resident parking schemes. However, it was the proposal to introduce charges in towns like Cottingham, Pocklington, Howden, and Hedon that ignited the most fervent opposition.
Councillor Meredith, a staunch supporter of the panel’s recommendations, argued that the proposed changes offered essential safeguards for towns currently without parking charges. He emphasized the rigorous eligibility criteria that would need to be met before any charges could be considered, as well as the mandatory consultation process involving residents, businesses, and local councils. He warned that rejecting the recommendations could leave settlements vulnerable to arbitrary implementation of charges without warning or local input.
However, many councillors remained unconvinced, highlighting the potential economic fallout from introducing charges. They pointed to the experiences of towns like Bridlington, where, despite paid parking, businesses have managed to thrive due to its status as a tourist destination.
Bridlington is one of the few places in the East Riding to already have parking charges, something Councillor Tim Norman doesn't think is fair.
Hornsea Councillor - Barbara Jefferson - didn't feel the councils proposals offered any benefit to local residents on the coast.
Councillor Needler, representing Pocklington, voiced concerns that charging for parking would simply drive shoppers to nearby retail parks offering free parking, leading to a decline in footfall and revenue for local businesses. He cited research indicating a direct correlation between parking availability and town centre performance, emphasizing that charging for a previously free service would likely deter shoppers.
Several councillors also criticized the lack of clarity surrounding the consultation process. They demanded greater transparency in how parking demand and its impact on town vitality would be assessed, as well as assurances that feedback from residents and businesses would be given adequate weight.
The proposed expansion of charging hours to Sundays also drew criticism, with concerns raised about the impact on churchgoers, Saturday nightlife, and the overall message it sent about promoting economic prosperity. The adequacy of having just a single parking meter per car park was also called into question, with concerns about accessibility for those unable or unwilling to use the mobile app.
Ultimately, the council opted to defer the decision and send the recommendations back to the review panel for further deliberation.
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