Liberal Democrats call for reassurance on charges for residents parking (Jeremy Hilton)

Liberal Democrats call for reassurance on charges for residents parking

November 2, 2009 2:07 PM

The Tory run county council's new scheme for residents parking permits has been 'called in' by Liberal Democrat councillors over worries that the administration will increase fees beyond what people can afford.

The cabinet decision on adopting a residents parking policy was made on 23rd October.

The 'call-in' is a legal process that halts the implementation of a decision until it has been properly scrutinised.

Liberal Democrat councillors are demanding that there are policy changes to ensure that permit fees only cover the cost of administration and enforcement. Currently the cabinet member could hike charges well beyond inflation.

Liberal Democrat Leader, Cllr. Jeremy Hilton said: "We fully support the principle of residents parking schemes. I am currently pressing for the introduction of a number of residents parking schemes in my own division. However, we want reassurances that residents will not be overcharged and that rises will remain low. We want a guarantee that permit holders will be consulted whenever there is a proposed change to charging policy. We must protect the public from being ripped off by a council trying to introduce a possible stealth tax. That is why I have signed the call-in."

Cllr Chris Pallet, Liberal Democrat councillor, Hesters Way and Up Hatherley said: "We must make sure that the council consults fully with local residents before a permit scheme is introduced or there is a change in the charging policy. As councillors we have to be sure that charging policy is fair before we recommend a residents parking scheme to residents in an area that we represent."

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Copy of call-in found policy pages http://www.jeremyhilton.co.uk/resources/index/