Permits released for new residents' parking scheme

People living in a seaside town can now buy permits to park near their homes ahead of a new residents' parking scheme coming into effect.

The permits, which cover 15 streets in Weston-super-Mare town centre, must be in place before the scheme begins on 16 February.

North Somerset Council hopes the trial will reduce traffic and keep spaces available to those who live and work in the area.

"If the pilot proves successful and we start to see a real difference on some of our busiest streets, our ambition is to look at more locations where we could introduce parking schemes for the benefit of our residents and our towns," said council leader Mike Bell.

"The roads can get particularly busy close to the centre of Weston-super-Mare, with vehicles often parked nose to tail and people driving around looking for a space," he added.

"It is hoped that our resident parking scheme pilot will help vehicles share available parking spaces on these 15 busy streets."

The permits, which start at £60 per year, cover Baker Street, Glebe Road, Wooler Road, Jubilee Road, George Street, Swiss Road, Hill Road, Stafford Road, Beaufort Road, Clarendon Road, Gordon Road, Milburn Road, Trevelyan Road, Little George Street and Camden Terrace.

The bays will be in operation between 08:00 and 19:00 from Monday to Saturday, with three types of permits available:

• parking in on-street bays
• parking in Locking Road long stay car park
• parking in both locations

Councillor Robert Payne, ward member for Weston-super-Mare Central, said the scheme also included new options for residents' visitors and for "businesses to manage staff and customer parking".

"This is important as we look to create a fairer balance in the availability of parking spaces," he added.

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