We want you to Have Your Say on the future of parking in Angus.
A review of both on and off-street parking aims to establish people’s expectations and requirements of car parking in Angus.
A Parking Review Member Officer Review Group (Rep No 243/20) recently invited views and opinions from community council, community and business group representatives. At a virtual meeting, they heard their views on the needs, preferences and priorities of people, retailers and businesses for the immediate future of on and off-street parking.
Now it is your turn.
The review group wants as many people as possible to have their say through an online survey which goes live on Tuesday, 1 December and will be available for two weeks.
Communities Convener, Cllr Mark Salmond said: “The work of the review so far, supported by the valuable contribution made by those who joined us at the Focus Group, has made it possible for us to present a number of possible options for the future of on and off-street parking.
“As people know, all parking charges have been suspended since the start of the Coronavirus Pandemic and we have extended that moratorium until 31 March 2021. That has given us this window of opportunity to look afresh at parking across Angus and we’re asking to people to support our efforts in doing this.”
We want people to look at the options set out in the survey, express their preferred choices and also offer any comments and/or suggestions they have. We would like you to complete the survey online. If you are not able to do this, paper copies will be available through our ACCESS drop-in services for completion and submission. See ACCESS services operating times for each burgh on our website.
Cllr Salmond said: “Your opinions matter and will be fully considered by the Parking Review MOWG before any recommendations are put before Full Council for all of our elected members to decide on any changes as part of the Council budget setting in early 2021.
“We do recognise that people may opt for cheaper car parking and permits, or even prefer that all parking in Angus was free. These choices have been factored into the survey, but I would ask that people consider what the wider consequences of any preferences they indicate would be.
“For example, free parking everywhere might sound perfect, but such a move could reduce the availability and turnover of spaces in and around our high streets. It could also mean there is not enough money for the Council to meet its operating costs for parking without impacting on other frontline services. It could also work against efforts to encourage healthier travel options and reduce carbon emissions.
“Your views will shape the recommendation that the Review Group makes. Please take time to carry out the survey and provide any additional thoughts or views you have. We want to get this right to ensure that we can support our communities in the best way possible.”
The link to the survey will be publicised when it goes live on Tuesday 1 December on our website. There will also be further information provided about on and off-street parking in Angus.