TAMESIDE Council is to review its car parking provision after controversial price rises caused consternation.
The authority’s raising of charges sparked complaints from business owners and people who use them.
Now it is to conduct a thorough examination of its offer, with the views of those who use them playing a key role in creating a ‘settled model for the next five years.’
Over the coming days, the review will start with three opportunities for key stakeholders – local businesses, especially those in town centres, interest groups like Hyde Accelerator and Ashton Town Team and partners such the colleges, the NHS and local supermarkets – with further opportunities for residents and businesses and a consultation to come in the new year before any proposals are put forward.
In an email to councillors seen by The Correspondent, Cllr Stephen Homer, Tameside Council’s executive member for towns, transport and connectivity, said: “While it may be a discretionary service, I’m sure you’ll agree, it is a very important service.
“Not least for our residents to be able to access vital services and to support our town centre businesses with footfall.
“There are also important links to wider transport connectivity, the environment and housing for town centre living.
“It is important to remember that the council service sits within a wider parking model that also includes retail and commercial car parks.
“Working together they can provide a comprehensive offer that meets the needs of various different users and purposes.
“With our town centre redevelopment plans moving forward at pace it feels like the right time to review the current offer and ensure it is fit for purpose.
“Just to re-iterate, that purpose being to support our residents and our town centres.”
It is understood the first stage of evidence gathering has commenced already and will run through to mid-March.
An update report will be brought to the executive cabinet in January and that will trigger six-weeks of public engagement with residents and car parks users.
By the spring, it is hoped Tameside Council has an extensive evidence base to inform the development of a new model.
In a statement, Cllr Homer added: “What’s most important to us is to listen to what people need to support them.
“We’re going to take the time to properly gather information, understand thoughts and ideas – starting with key stakeholders across the borough and then we look forward to gathering residents’ and businesses’ views in the new year.
“I want us to be able to provide a parking offer that really benefits our residents and town centres and businesses.
“I hope as many people as possible get involved in the review, so we have a full understanding of everyone’s views and needs.”
For more information see www.tameside.gov.uk/parkingreview. Further details on the review and opportunities to find out more and get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.