Agenda and minutes

To receive any apologies for absence.

No apologies for absence were received.

Members to declare any interests in matters to be discussed at the meeting.

There were no declarations of interest made at the meeting.

To consider the advertising changes to the off-street parking places order and long stay on-street parking charges, consultation response.

Further to approval at the Cabinet meeting on 20 July 2022 (Minute No. 148/22) of the Parking Charges Policy, the Cabinet Member for Environment Services considered responses to the consultation.

Changes to the off-street parking places across the Borough and long stay on-street parking in Wednesbury and West Bromwich had been advertised between 18 August and 30 September 2022.

Following objections received from members of the public, the Cabinet Member for Environment Services considered representations which included:-

·      public transport was not always a feasible option for those with mobility requirements and other circumstances;

·      the increased charges were predicted to have an adverse impact upon footfall and would have a detrimental impact upon shoppers and business;

·      parking space capacity did not meet demand;

·      the decision to raise charges would place additional pressure upon the finances of residents during a cost of living crisis;

·      the increased charges would negatively impact upon members of staff.

The Service Manager – Highways outlined that parking charges in the Borough had not increased since 2016 and there was a need to maintain the car parking facilities and that an existing public transport network was in operation within Sandwell.

After considering the representations made, the Cabinet Member for Environment Services was minded to recommend a further report to Cabinet.

Resolved that a further report be submitted to Cabinet to consider the review of Parking Charges Policy.