Decision details

The report was introduced by the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Transportation, Councillor Mike Rigby.

During the discussion, the following points were raised:-

·       A query was raised around the late timing of this decision, despite the effect of Covid-19.

·       The Portfolio Holder confirmed that the uncertainty of the lockdown was the main reason as was detailed in the report, however the officers in the Car Parking team would also be inviting those towns and villages that required changes around Christmas to submit their requests by September of next year.

·       It was raised as to the need for longer-term strategic thinking for short-stay car parking in places where owning a car was essential.

·       The Portfolio Holder confirmed a review of the parking strategy was underway and part of that would include a one hour free trial.

·       Councillors raised concerns around the lack of clear signage and members of the public continuing to keep paying, and the 3pm timing was perhaps too late in the day.

RESOLVED that the Council noted the decision made to suspend parking charges as detailed in 4.5 - 4.8 of the report on the three Saturdays leading up to Christmas and Sunday 6th December in Dulverton.