THE public could have their say on plans to raise parking charges across the county – the first significant increase in more than a decade.
On Monday, June 17, Cllr Nick Bennett, East Sussex County Council’s deputy leader, will be asked to approve a public consultation on changes to the cost of parking permits and pay and display fees.
The increased charges would be used to cover the cost of the scheme with any surplus used as a further contribution to the county council’s public transport costs.
Rupert Clubb, director for transport and environment, said: “Although many motorists would see an increase in parking charges under the proposals, the cost of on-street parking in East Sussex has not increased significantly in Lewes since 2007 and in Eastbourne and Hastings since 2008.
“The proposed changes to residents’ permits would result in a fairer charging system in which permits cost the same regardless of where in the county you live, while pay and display tariffs would increase by between 20p and £1.90.
“As well as covering the cost of running the scheme, the increase will help us manage the growing demand for parking, promote more sustainable forms of transport and improve the air quality in our busy town centres.”
Under the proposals, the price of residents’ permits would be standardised across Lewes, Eastbourne and Hastings for the first time, with owners of low-emission vehicles paying less than those with high-emissions.
Charges for first permits in Hastings would remain the same or reduce for residents with a vehicle in car tax bands A to F, while the majority of motorists in Eastbourne would pay more for annual permits. The cost of a first permit would be between £15 and £95 per year.
Charges for permits in Lewes, where discount is already given to low emission vehicles, would remain the same, while the cost of resident permits in Falmer would increase.
Charges for on-street parking across Eastbourne, Hastings and Lewes would almost double under the proposals, following 11 years of no significant increases. Increases would range from 20p to £1.90 per hour.
Any additional surplus, after operational costs, could be used as a further contribution towards the county council’s public transport costs. This would complement the council’s Local Transport Plan by investing in sustainable transport which helps to reduce congestion and improve air quality in the county.
A full report and details of the lead member meeting on Monday, June 17, can be found at https://democracy.eastsussex.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=177&MId=3808&Ver=4
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