Issue - items at meetings - WRITTEN QUESTIONS FROM COUNCILLORS

(copy attached).

102.1          The Cabinet Member reported that one written question had been received from a councillor.

102.2          Councillor Kennedy had submitted the following question:

"The introduction of a residents parking scheme in Preston Park Avenue has led to increased numbers of commuters parking all day in Preston Park itself.  Residents who wish to use the park for leisure are reporting that it is difficult to find a parking space for just a few hours while they enjoy the park.

“I understand that as park land is not part of the ‘public highway’, yellow lines and prohibitive signage are not enforceable by law; they are simply there to give a clear message to the public to exercise consideration for other park users.

“However such consideration is not being shown by commuters towards genuine park users.  Therefore, please can the Cabinet Member for the Environment advise me what the council’s plans are to deal with all-day commuter parking in Preston Park, in order to free up parking spaces for those who genuinely wish to use the park’s facilities?”

102.3          The following response had been circulated by the Cabinet Member:

“Thank you for your question.  

We are reviewing the parking situation in Preston Park, but it is not easy to devise a scheme which does not affect people from using the park for leisure purposes. I really do not want to restrict people from accessing the park who wish to enjoy it. 

To try and help I will ask officers to place leaflets on cars informing them that they cannot use the park for commuter parking. I would like to test this out before considering controls on parking in the park.”

102.4          Councillor Kennedy asked the following supplementary question:

“When will the leaflets begin to be used and will it continue on a rolling basis?”

102.5          The Cabinet Member gave the following response:

“I would expect it to begin as soon as possible and will provide you with further details of the proposals in writing.”