Lincoln’s Sincil Bank Permit Parking Scheme Expansion Approved Despite Criticism
In a news given by Lincolnshire County Council’s Planning and Regulation Committee, the extension of a resident parking permit scheme in the Sincil Bank area has been green-lit. Anticipated parts to be included in the expanded zone include sections of High Street and Canwick Road.
Neil Murray, a newly-elected Councillor for both County and City, expressed his support for the scheme, stating: "I walked around the area the other day and the scheme has transformed the area...Previously, you couldn't move for parked cars between 8am-6pm and now it's a much, much better environment for residents."
Addressing the Parking Worries
The scheme’s expansion is projected to counteract the loss of on-street parking for residents and businesses in the vicinity of the newly introduced permit parking zones. As a result, neighbouring properties will be authorised to apply for parking permits within these zones.
Since the launch of the scheme on 1 September 2023, around 1,580 Sincil Bank parking passes have been sold, according to the City of Lincoln Council. A report by the Lincolnshire County Council detailed that 175 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) for non-display, and 12 for invalid permits, incorrect zones or expired permits were issued between 12-20 September.
Objections Raised
Despite the council’s enthusiasm, some objections were raised against the scheme, four to be exact. Concerns for increased competition for parking among current permit holders and arguments that the scheme was merely a revenue-generating strategy for the council were brought forward.
Emma Chapman voiced her fears about the scheme’s impact on short-term parking, querying: "How does the council think removing [parking] is going to help any of the businesses down there that rely on them for passing trade?" Lindsey Fez Gray echoed her concerns, noting: "By the time they’ve finished, there won't be enough spaces for employees, visitors and shoppers." Jan Pedge also chimed in, stating: "This will cover all of Lincoln before too long. Excellent revenue for the councils at the car owners’ expense."
Yet, among the naysayers, some residents were in favour of the scheme. Christine Logan shared: "Before they introduced parking permits, no one in the street could ever get parked. So parking permits made it easy for residents to park their cars." David Hankinson also pleaded for traffic wardens to continue their patrols down Princess Street to keep an eye on illegal parking.
Justifying Expense
Addressing concerns, the council report clarified that the permit’s cost aims to cover administrative expenses of the City of Lincoln Council and enforcement expenses of the County Council, thus disputing claims of revenue generation.