Feedback on a new joined-up approach to the implementation of Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) across the district is being invited.
A draft policy has been drawn up to address some of the issues caused by the existing framework, introduced in 2015, following feedback from residents.
CPZs are areas where all on-street parking is controlled either by yellow lines or designated parking bays, often with a permit system in place.
Some of the suggested changes are as follows:
- New requests: To stop considering petitions for individual roads to prevent simply moving an issue to a neighbouring one; to increase the level of support required for a formal consultation to be initiated to 60% of properties likely to be directly affected (currently 50%)
- Business permits: A limited number to be made available to education, social/health care and emergency service organisations to provide to staff – the total number would be determined by available parking capacity
- Motorcycles: With digital permits now the norm, it is proposed to apply standard resident and business permit charges to motorcycles. This would be in line with neighbouring districts and ensure fairness across all vehicle types
The policy was widely welcomed by members of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee, and it is now the turn of the public to make their comments.
Visit the council’s website to complete the questionnaire before the 3pm deadline on Monday 2 March. Paper copies are available on request – email parking.services@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk, call 01303 853000 or visit the Civic Centre in Folkestone during business hours.
Cllr Polly Blakemore – Cabinet Member for Transport, Regulatory Services and Building Control – said: “On-street parking controls need to strike a balance between the evolving needs of both local residents and the wider community.
“This new framework aims to avoid some of the difficulties caused by the existing street-by-street approach, as well as ensure that CPZ proposals follow a robust local consultation process and meet approved criteria.”
Folkestone & Hythe District Council currently receives up to 40 CPZ applications a year, most of which cover single streets.