The Assembly Member for Aberconwy, Janet Finch-Saunders AM, has today issued a statement regarding the proposals by Conwy County Borough Council to introduce parking charges in currently free council car parks.
Further to the publication of the Council’s Parking Strategy Study, and the subsequent establishment of a Task and Finish Group, the recommendations of the Study are being considered, with the Group providing recommendations to the Joint Customers and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Cabinet as their work progresses.
Janet said: “Whilst the Task and Finish Group have recommended that each car park must be financially self-sustainable, or supports the wider financial self-sustainability of a group of car parks in a particular area, they have yet to consider in detail the local impacts of the proposed parking charges, and how, and to what extent, these can be mitigated at each car park.
“Following representation to myself from a number of constituents and businesses in Llanrwst, I hold real concerns about the potential impact that the introduction of parking charges at the Plas Yn Dre car park.
“A full and proper consultation of those locally affected by these proposals must be undertaken. Democracy must come first, and it is vital that those for whom we – as elected persons – serve, have their voices heard.
“The ability of all to have their voices heard within local government is a mainstay and vital part of our proud democracy here in Wales, and it is essential to ensure meaningful democracy, sustain and promote engagement and uphold the principles of democratic representation.
“Furthermore, on a matter of such public interest, I feel that it is imperative that the final decision is made by the full Council, so as to ensure that all those affected are able to be represented by their elected Councillor in the making of this decision.”
The Assembly Member further commented:
“The initial Parking Strategy Study found that occupancy levels at this car park are ‘very high…even out of season’, with 50% of users surveyed staying that they would park elsewhere should charges be introduced.
“Additionally, during the undertaking of this Study, all who were consulted on such proposals were in opposition to introducing parking charges. This included Llanrwst Town Council and the Elected Members.
“Whilst it is noted that the disposal of this car park would cause major displacement local at all times, and in the high season would leave the village short of parking spaces, I think it is important to note that the introduction of charges would have a similar effect, given the numbers who have implied that they would go elsewhere to park.
“I understand that the Llanrwst Chamber of Trade have made representations, and numerous other local objections have been made directly to Conwy County Borough Council.
“I am today calling on the County Councillors for the area, and the Council, to acknowledge and fully take into account these objections, and to ensure that they are conveyed in a timely manner to the Task and Finish Group, Joint Scrutiny Committee and Cabinet for their consideration whilst they are looking into these proposals.”
ENDS
A copy of a letter sent by the Assembly Member to Conwy County Borough Council Cabinet Members is attached.
