Strategy Document Lacks Residents Parking Scheme as a Priority

A meeting of the borough council approved a Sustainable Community Strategy, but not before the Lib Dems had commented on its failure to put a Residents Parking Scheme as a priority.

The Lib Dems have wanted a residents parking scheme for years (but only in the roads where the residents themselves want it) because of increasing parking problems caused by long stay commuters. In some areas in and around Epsom, the situation is at breaking point, with residents unable to park anywhere near their property for periods during the day. The County Council, as the highway authority, has embarked upon its own strategy which it wants to apply across the whole county and a residents parking scheme will be part of implementing the strategy. Single permits are set at £50 per vehicle with subsequent permits required by the same household and visitor parking permit charges the subject of debate.

Cllr Alison Kelly, who represents Town ward, one of the worst affected areas with commuter parking, said "There was one reference to residents parking problems within the document, but clearly it should have been given more prominence. There is a statutory requirement to have this document and it is only a guideline really. I hope that by now anyone with a commuter parking problem knows just what importance the Lib Dems place on a residents parking scheme and what steps we are taking to try and get action."

The County's ability to deliver a parking strategy across the county remains to be seen, particularly at a time when government grant is being heavily cut and there's simply not enough money to even keep the roads in good order.