Resident Parking Permit Scheme Extension Proposed for Lincolnshire
A residents' parking permit arrangement encompassing the Sincil Bank vicinity in Lincoln is expected to grow, extending to parts of the High Street and Canwick Road. The Lincolnshire County Council’s Planning and Regulation Committee will review the proposal on Monday, October 2.
Expansion in Response to Parking Issues
The extension of the permit zones has been suggested in response to concerns about limited street parking availability for residents and businesses near the new permit parking sectors. This amendment seeks to restore parking opportunities for these areas and alleviate the overflow of parked vehicles into neighbouring zones, which are now experiencing increased use by commuters.
“This proposal seeks to address the loss of on street parking for residents and businesses on the periphery of the newly introduced permit parking zones. By amending the traffic regulation order to include the sections of High Street and Canwick Road as proposed, their opportunity to park will be restored and displacement of parking to adjacent areas, which will now already be subject to more use by commuters, is reduced.”
Review of the Current Scheme
The initial permit scheme started on September 1, and approximately 1,580 Sincil Bank parking passes have been purchased, according to the City of Lincoln Council data. Enforcement statistics indicate that 175 Penalty Charge Notices for non-display and 12 for invalid permits were issued between September 12 and September 20.
New Zones to Include High Street and Canwick Road
The current permit parking schemes are operative in the Sincil Bank area and the west side of the High Street, introduced at the behest of the City of Lincoln Council. The proposed addition is aimed at extending the zones to include parts of the High Street and Canwick Road, making it possible for properties in these zones to obtain parking permits. Despite the benefits, the proposed expansion has met with four objections, worrying about intensified competition for parking among existing permit holders and concerns about the council's financial motives behind the scheme.
Public Sentiments and Concerns
Residents in the area have expressed varied reactions to the scheme. While some residents see it as a potent solution to the parking struggle, especially for those living in student housing, a few have expressed concerns, such as unclear markings and impact on non-residents. Several residents appreciated the introduction of guest passes and the alleviated parking issues, yet some foresee the need for further improvements.
“I think in general it’s a good idea to have a permit scheme in place, especially because we have a lot of student housing and they often have friends parking in the area. The new scheme has worked out so far. We also get a lot of people who park here for work, which makes it harder for those living down here to park. However, there’s a lack of markings on our street so far.” - Joanne Druce, local resident