I've posted a few comments on Council plans for closing Care Homes and a new Museum of Bristol, both discussed at the last Cabinet meeting. Two agenda item that I haven't covered relate to Car Parking in the city.
The first agenda item was a report discussing plans for the central Controlled Parking Zone in the centre of Bristol. (PARKING STRATEGY - NEXT STEPS). This is not a London-style camera controlled affair, but rather a legislative hook for parking legislation. Some of the specific measures to be introduced form part of the report submitted as the second agenda item. (BRISTOL LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK -STATEMENTOF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT)
The goal underlying both of these reports is to "encouraging modal shift by commuters from car to
public transport, park and ride, or other options". Encouragement in this context meaning more fines, controls and interference by transport planners. And the prirmary "involvement" of the community will be when they open their wallets.
The key outcomes of these policies are:
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Park & Ride fares will increase
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Tariffs at Council Parking structures will increase
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Single Yellow Lines will be turned into Parking Bays
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Parking on Sundays and Bank Holidays will no longer be free
The second report relates to the introduction of Resident's parling zones in two rings around the centre of Bristol. Yes, it's the return of the Kingsdown Controlled Parking Zone. And this time, it's got a big brother: the Bristol Residents Parking Project. Have a look at a full map of the effected area here. More information to follow, but the key question to ask is: How much will local residents be charged for participation in this scheme if it goes ahead? Specifically, how much will you have to pay over and above your council tax for a parking permit?
